 "Why America's election and its result matter for the world")
The 2024 US presidential election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment, not just for America, but for the entire world. On the surface, the election seems to be about domestic issues like abortion, inflation, and jobs. However, the global implications of this election are immense, as the US is the world’s largest economy and second-largest trading country, with trade relationships with over 200 nations.
The two candidates, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, represent vastly different ideologies. Trump is known for his isolationist stance, believing in using trade as a weapon and being skeptical of alliances like NATO. On the other hand, Harris’s foreign policy is seen as a continuation of Biden’s, with a focus on international cooperation.
So, why should the world care about the result? The answer lies in the potential fallout. A protectionist US president could have devastating effects on global trade, and the US’s stance on climate change could impact international efforts to address this critical issue. The US is the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, and Trump’s previous withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement is a worrying precedent.
Other countries are watching the election closely, with varying levels of interest and concern. India, for instance, has stable ties with the US and is likely to maintain good relations regardless of the winner. Western Europe and NATO, on the other hand, are rooting for a Harris win, given Trump’s past criticism of NATO. Ukraine is wary of Trump, who has promised to end the war but may cut military aid. Israel prefers Trump, thanks to his past support, while Saudi Arabia would welcome a Trump victory after Biden’s promise to make Riyadh a “pariah”.
North Korea might prefer Trump, who has engaged in talks with Kim Jong Un, but China is a wild card. Trump’s trade war and promised 60 per cent tariff on Chinese imports could devastate China’s economy. However, China may not mind if Trump wins, as he’s unlikely to defend Taiwan.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsUltimately, the world will be watching Washington closely as the election unfolds. The outcome will have far-reaching consequences, shaping international relations, global trade, and the fight against climate change.
Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.
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