Reference Message Network reported on April 20 that the German "WirtschaftsWoche" published an interview with Harold James, a professor at Princeton University, by journalists Maia Brankovich and Dieter Schuhnas on April 15. The title of the article is "Playing with the Powder Keg." Here are some excerpts: Professor Harold James of history and international affairs at Princeton University is convinced that Trump's "collapse policy" will fail. He expects China to benefit from it. "WirtschaftsWoche" reporter asked: Did US President Trump destroy the liberal world economic order on April 2? Harold James replied: Not to this extent yet. Trump has administered a shock therapy to the world. It worked: everyone is in a state of shock. Reporter: Just a shock? Or more than that? Answer: In the already unstable world pattern, we are witnessing new changes and elements. First, I believe that Trump's tariff policy essentially continues the economic fracture and political turmoil that have shaken the globe since 2020 - initially due to the pandemic, followed by the Russia-Ukraine war. We live in an era full of "supply shocks." Reporter: How did we get here? Answer: On one hand, there are supply disruptions; on the other hand, the perception that "old globalization has failed" has been established. Trump believes that globalization no longer benefits America or Americans. This perception may not align with reality, but it is highly influential. Reporter: So, are we dealing with a transitional world order, or the beginning of an era where emergency conditions become the norm? Answer: Both. America's actions signal the end of the world order that has been led by it since 1945. America's withdrawal process is neither gradual nor cautious; it is rapid and reckless. This is evident in the Trump administration's attacks on its long-term alliances with Canada, Mexico, and Europe, which accelerates the transition to a multipolar world. Reporter: In other words, what we are experiencing is not the end of globalization, but the end of its Western liberal version? Answer: Exactly. In this regard, America is self-destructive. In English, we would say, "It shot itself in the foot." But that expression is too conservative; it should be said, "It shot itself in the head and heart." Reporter: Who will benefit from America's tariff war? Answer: China. Moreover, Europe will also seize a historic opportunity. From a certain perspective, the plan to "make America great again" should be called "make Europe great again." Trump is giving Europe a real strategic opportunity. Reporter: Let's talk about China again: how much influence can Beijing gain? Answer: China will benefit economically, increase its strength, and fill the vacuum left by America. A new order may not necessarily emerge; instead, it is more likely to result in a chaotic situation with many small power centers. Those who do not engage in strategic thinking now will sink. Reporter: In what ways can China benefit from Trump's tariff policies? Answer: I think China will mainly gain two advantages. First, control over the supply chain. China dominates the markets for many scarce resources that are essential for modern technology research and application. In response to Trump, China not only introduced retaliatory tariffs but also imposed export controls on rare earths. Second, China has made tremendous progress in the field of artificial intelligence and is no longer dependent on Silicon Valley. The belief that America can maintain its technological advantage and dominate high-tech is a mistaken idea - another misjudgment by the Trump administration. Reporter: What about Europe? Where is our opportunity? Europe lacks rare earths, has weak military strength, and does not possess independent information and communication technology. Answer: Europe's biggest weakness lies in its security and defense policies. During his first term, Trump urged Europe to increase defense spending and purchase more American weapons. Now we see that America is no longer a reliable partner. Europe must stand on its own feet and increase defense spending. Reporter: In other words, Europe should view itself with greater confidence? Answer: Absolutely. Europe is vibrant—especially North and Eastern Europe. I mean it: Europe has many reasons to look forward optimistically. This is also because Germany's decision to cancel the "debt brake" mechanism sent a strong signal to its partner countries: we see the challenges—we are taking responsibility. (Translated by Wang Ziqiang) Original source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7495382348494635557/ Disclaimer: This article solely represents the author's personal views. Please express your attitude by clicking the "like/dislike" buttons below.