1 00:00:01,077 --> 00:00:02,379 Christmas in Africa's very interesting. 2 00:00:02,479 --> 00:00:04,214 Yeah, because it's summer. 3 00:00:04,314 --> 00:00:06,416 So it has none of the cheer that you guys associate 4 00:00:06,516 --> 00:00:07,984 with it in America. 5 00:00:08,084 --> 00:00:12,522 It's just, like, sweaty people delivering presents. 6 00:00:12,622 --> 00:00:14,591 It's a very different vibe. 7 00:00:14,691 --> 00:00:16,693 Like, unwrapping gifts is a lot more fun 8 00:00:16,793 --> 00:00:18,895 when you're, like, cozy next to, like, a fireplace. 9 00:00:18,995 --> 00:00:20,931 When it's hot, it just feels like a job. 10 00:00:21,031 --> 00:00:22,299 Do you know what I mean? 11 00:00:22,399 --> 00:00:23,633 Everyone's like: (panting) 12 00:00:23,733 --> 00:00:25,235 What did you get me? 13 00:00:25,335 --> 00:00:27,203 Why are you making me work? 14 00:00:27,304 --> 00:00:29,005 Why... why did you bring it wrapped? 15 00:00:29,105 --> 00:00:31,808 Why didn't you just bring it unwrapped? 16 00:00:31,908 --> 00:00:34,311 I don't think I ever got a wrapped gift. 17 00:00:34,411 --> 00:00:36,580 Like, no, when I was a kid growing up, I never got a wra... 18 00:00:36,680 --> 00:00:38,181 Why would... I've never understood 19 00:00:38,281 --> 00:00:39,849 the concept of a wrapped gift. 20 00:00:39,950 --> 00:00:42,852 It only breeds, like, disappointment. 21 00:00:42,953 --> 00:00:44,754 'Cause everyone is just like: Oh, I wonder what it is. 22 00:00:44,854 --> 00:00:46,756 It's never what you thought it is. 23 00:00:46,856 --> 00:00:48,792 That's a very sad way to live life. 24 00:00:48,892 --> 00:00:50,860 You shouldn't wrap gifts. 25 00:00:50,961 --> 00:00:53,630 You should... You know what you should use wrapping paper for? 26 00:00:53,730 --> 00:00:55,932 For, like, for after the gifts. 27 00:00:56,032 --> 00:00:58,401 People give you things, and then you go like, "Meh, 28 00:00:58,501 --> 00:01:00,003 I don't like that," and then you wrap it up. 29 00:01:00,103 --> 00:01:02,105 That's what wrapping should be for. 30 00:01:02,172 --> 00:01:04,274 'Cause like, "I wish this never happened. 31 00:01:04,374 --> 00:01:07,110 This is all you bought me after a year of being in my life?" 32 00:01:07,143 --> 00:01:09,913 That's what wrapping should be for. 33 00:01:10,013 --> 00:01:11,348 Yeah, it's just... it's, like... 34 00:01:11,448 --> 00:01:13,116 And it's not bad, by the way. 35 00:01:13,183 --> 00:01:15,619 I'm just saying it's funny, when you come from a different place, 36 00:01:15,719 --> 00:01:18,121 your mindset on these things is completely different. 37 00:01:18,154 --> 00:01:20,857 I just never had a wrapped present, 38 00:01:20,957 --> 00:01:22,459 nor do I enjoy wrapping. 39 00:01:22,559 --> 00:01:24,261 I hate when people say that to me. 40 00:01:24,361 --> 00:01:26,162 I have Americans in my life now, and they're like: 41 00:01:26,263 --> 00:01:28,665 "Oh, you didn't wrap it?" I bought you shit. 42 00:01:28,765 --> 00:01:31,501 I bought you some shit, now you want me to wrap the shit? 43 00:01:31,601 --> 00:01:33,503 It's already in a package, as well. 44 00:01:33,603 --> 00:01:35,005 Now I just say, "climate change," 45 00:01:35,138 --> 00:01:36,339 then they can't say anything. 46 00:01:36,439 --> 00:01:38,742 But for a few years, I had to fight with people. 47 00:01:38,842 --> 00:01:42,145 "Why didn't you wrap it?" Because it comes wrapped! 48 00:01:42,212 --> 00:01:45,048 It's in packaging. You want the packaging of the packaging. 49 00:01:45,148 --> 00:01:47,717 Do you know what I mean? "Oh, but I want the surprise." 50 00:01:47,817 --> 00:01:49,753 Then close your eyes before you look at the shit. 51 00:01:49,853 --> 00:01:51,955 You're going to make your surprise my job. 52 00:01:52,055 --> 00:01:54,558 I bought you the shit. You know what was a surprise for me? 53 00:01:54,658 --> 00:01:56,960 How much your present cost me. That was a surprise. 54 00:01:57,060 --> 00:01:59,696 "Why didn't you wrap this shit?" Why didn't you buy it? 55 00:01:59,796 --> 00:02:01,565 You want surprises and you want gifts. 56 00:02:01,665 --> 00:02:03,466 I can't do everything in your life. 57 00:02:03,567 --> 00:02:05,268 Some bullshit. 58 00:02:06,436 --> 00:02:09,773 -But Merry Christmas, everybody. I mean... -(crew laughter) 59 00:02:09,873 --> 00:02:12,409 ANNOUNCER: Coming to you from the heart of Times Square 60 00:02:12,509 --> 00:02:15,178 in New York City, the only city in America, 61 00:02:15,278 --> 00:02:17,414 it's The Daily Show. 62 00:02:17,514 --> 00:02:20,483 Tonight-- Omicron, can't stop, won't stop, 63 00:02:20,584 --> 00:02:23,220 what China is up to in Africa, 64 00:02:23,320 --> 00:02:26,223 and Bruno Le Maire. 65 00:02:26,323 --> 00:02:30,961 This is The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. 66 00:02:31,127 --> 00:02:32,629 Hey! What's going on, everybody? 67 00:02:32,729 --> 00:02:34,497 Welcome to The Daily Show. I'm Trevor Noah. 68 00:02:34,598 --> 00:02:37,133 Let's jump straight into today's headlines. 69 00:02:37,167 --> 00:02:39,669 ♪ ♪ 70 00:02:39,769 --> 00:02:41,671 We kick things off with the only story 71 00:02:41,771 --> 00:02:44,908 everybody has been talking about for two years now: 72 00:02:45,008 --> 00:02:47,744 the coronavirus pandemic. 73 00:02:47,844 --> 00:02:51,147 Yeah, this thing is starting to feel a lot like a Marvel movie. 74 00:02:51,214 --> 00:02:53,416 It's exciting, but it's kind of dragging on 75 00:02:53,516 --> 00:02:55,218 for a really long time. 76 00:02:55,318 --> 00:02:58,288 Now, the Omicron wave that we've been waiting for 77 00:02:58,388 --> 00:03:00,490 has now hit the U.S. for real. 78 00:03:00,590 --> 00:03:02,492 Hospitals are starting to fill up again. 79 00:03:02,592 --> 00:03:04,728 Big companies that were planning to bring workers back 80 00:03:04,828 --> 00:03:09,232 to the office in January have postponed until May 2097. 81 00:03:09,332 --> 00:03:12,102 And concerts and shows are shutting down. 82 00:03:12,202 --> 00:03:15,805 A lot of people are saying that it feels like March 2020 83 00:03:15,906 --> 00:03:17,274 all over again. 84 00:03:17,374 --> 00:03:20,110 But, people, please have some optimism. 85 00:03:20,176 --> 00:03:23,613 Things are much better now than they were back then. 86 00:03:23,713 --> 00:03:26,116 For one, we have vaccines. 87 00:03:26,216 --> 00:03:28,451 Two, we have treatments. 88 00:03:28,552 --> 00:03:32,322 And three, no one thinks Zoom happy hours are a good idea. 89 00:03:32,422 --> 00:03:33,823 We've learned a lot. 90 00:03:33,924 --> 00:03:35,659 But while we are being reminded 91 00:03:35,759 --> 00:03:37,861 about just how serious this pandemic is, 92 00:03:37,961 --> 00:03:39,963 there are still some people who are taking it 93 00:03:40,130 --> 00:03:42,599 just a little more lightly. 94 00:03:42,699 --> 00:03:45,468 A Cape Coral man was spotted on a United Airlines flight 95 00:03:45,569 --> 00:03:48,572 masking up, but not with one of these. 96 00:03:48,672 --> 00:03:52,042 He actually was wearing underwear, on his face. 97 00:03:52,142 --> 00:03:55,412 This is Adam Jenne wearing his statement piece, 98 00:03:55,512 --> 00:03:57,514 a bright red thong. 99 00:03:57,614 --> 00:04:00,450 I think the best way to illustrate absurdity 100 00:04:00,550 --> 00:04:02,552 is with absurdity. 101 00:04:02,652 --> 00:04:04,854 NEWSWOMAN: Jenne says he's worn underwear as a mask 102 00:04:04,955 --> 00:04:07,157 since the beginning of the pandemic. 103 00:04:07,257 --> 00:04:08,625 JENNE: I am banned from flying United, 104 00:04:08,725 --> 00:04:11,461 so, so much for "the customer is always right." 105 00:04:11,561 --> 00:04:15,198 NEWSWOMAN: Jenne is comparing himself to civil rights icons. 106 00:04:15,298 --> 00:04:18,501 Everything else that has sparked change in this country 107 00:04:18,602 --> 00:04:20,670 has started from everyday people. 108 00:04:20,770 --> 00:04:24,407 Rosa Parks was nobody famous. 109 00:04:24,507 --> 00:04:26,910 She changed the course of history. 110 00:04:27,010 --> 00:04:29,412 Rosa Parks? My man, don't be so modest. 111 00:04:29,512 --> 00:04:31,414 You're more than Rosa Parks. 112 00:04:31,514 --> 00:04:33,416 If anything, you're the Martin Luther King 113 00:04:33,516 --> 00:04:35,418 of white dudes comparing themselves to Black heroes 114 00:04:35,518 --> 00:04:36,586 for no reason. 115 00:04:36,686 --> 00:04:38,121 Shit! 116 00:04:38,154 --> 00:04:40,123 You know, for real, sometimes I think conservatives are right: 117 00:04:40,156 --> 00:04:41,558 America shouldn't be teaching 118 00:04:41,658 --> 00:04:43,293 the history of racism in schools. 119 00:04:43,393 --> 00:04:45,295 Because then at least white people wouldn't know 120 00:04:45,395 --> 00:04:46,763 who to compare themselves to 121 00:04:46,863 --> 00:04:49,132 when they get kicked off of airplanes for doing dumb shit. 122 00:04:49,232 --> 00:04:51,201 I'm exactly the same as, uh-- 123 00:04:51,301 --> 00:04:53,637 I-I can't think of anybody. You know? 124 00:04:53,737 --> 00:04:56,339 Like, maybe I'm just an dumbass wearing panties on my face. 125 00:04:56,439 --> 00:04:58,708 I need to reevaluate my behavior. 126 00:04:58,808 --> 00:05:00,410 And, by the way, can we all agree 127 00:05:00,510 --> 00:05:02,779 there's no way this dude just started sniffing thongs 128 00:05:02,879 --> 00:05:04,347 during the pandemic? 129 00:05:04,447 --> 00:05:07,150 I bet you he's been going around for years like, 130 00:05:07,250 --> 00:05:09,185 "Well, looks like I got kicked out of the dorm 131 00:05:09,286 --> 00:05:11,354 "because I'm once again the Rosa Parks 132 00:05:11,454 --> 00:05:13,456 "of my sister's friend's underwear drawer. 133 00:05:13,557 --> 00:05:15,892 Yeah. Someone's got to do it." 134 00:05:15,992 --> 00:05:17,360 But as long as we're talking about civil rights, 135 00:05:17,460 --> 00:05:19,663 let's move on to a story about Martin Luther King Day. 136 00:05:19,763 --> 00:05:21,097 Some people are saying 137 00:05:21,197 --> 00:05:24,968 America needs to stop celebrating MLK Day next year, 138 00:05:25,101 --> 00:05:27,437 but the people suggesting it 139 00:05:27,537 --> 00:05:29,472 might not be who you think. 140 00:05:29,573 --> 00:05:31,374 NEWSMAN: Martin Luther King III is asking people 141 00:05:31,474 --> 00:05:33,109 not to celebrate his father's legacy 142 00:05:33,209 --> 00:05:35,111 on MLK Day coming up next month 143 00:05:35,212 --> 00:05:36,780 if Congress has not passed 144 00:05:36,880 --> 00:05:39,015 new national voting rights protection. 145 00:05:39,115 --> 00:05:40,784 NEWSMAN 2: They're calling on President Joe Biden 146 00:05:40,884 --> 00:05:43,320 and lawmakers to pass two voting rights bills 147 00:05:43,420 --> 00:05:44,955 that have been stalled in Congress. 148 00:05:45,121 --> 00:05:46,790 One is aimed at fighting voter suppression 149 00:05:46,890 --> 00:05:50,126 and restoring the 1965 Voting Rights Act. 150 00:05:50,193 --> 00:05:51,895 The other focused on reforms 151 00:05:51,995 --> 00:05:54,464 making it easier to register to vote. 152 00:05:54,564 --> 00:05:56,132 Ooh, this is hard-core. 153 00:05:56,199 --> 00:05:59,169 But I-I get why the King family has to resort to this. 154 00:05:59,269 --> 00:06:01,371 I mean, with Republicans blocking the new laws 155 00:06:01,471 --> 00:06:03,139 and Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema 156 00:06:03,240 --> 00:06:04,708 refusing to end the filibuster 157 00:06:04,808 --> 00:06:06,576 so that Democrats can pass it themselves, 158 00:06:06,676 --> 00:06:08,445 someone has to think outside of the box. 159 00:06:08,545 --> 00:06:10,614 And holding a holiday as a hostage is a great leverage. 160 00:06:10,714 --> 00:06:12,115 I mean, it's a brilliant idea. 161 00:06:12,215 --> 00:06:13,750 You know, 'cause I don't care how racist you are. 162 00:06:13,850 --> 00:06:16,086 Nobody wants to give up a day off of work. 163 00:06:16,119 --> 00:06:17,854 In fact, if you ask me, 164 00:06:17,954 --> 00:06:19,923 they shouldn't just threaten to just take MLK Day. 165 00:06:20,090 --> 00:06:21,157 No. You know what they should do? 166 00:06:21,258 --> 00:06:23,593 They should threaten to turn MLK Day 167 00:06:23,693 --> 00:06:25,795 into a second Valentine's Day. 168 00:06:25,896 --> 00:06:27,530 That's a real threat. 169 00:06:27,631 --> 00:06:29,266 Yeah, nobody wants to put their relationship 170 00:06:29,366 --> 00:06:30,600 in that much trouble. 171 00:06:30,700 --> 00:06:33,937 "You forgot Valentine's Day!" 172 00:06:34,104 --> 00:06:35,272 "There's another one?" 173 00:06:35,372 --> 00:06:37,741 Still, this is a risky strategy. 174 00:06:37,841 --> 00:06:40,143 'Cause you realize Republicans have a way 175 00:06:40,243 --> 00:06:43,580 of twisting everything related to MLK. 176 00:06:43,680 --> 00:06:47,450 Yeah. Tomorrow, Ron DeSantis could come out and be like, 177 00:06:47,551 --> 00:06:49,019 "The King family is right. 178 00:06:49,119 --> 00:06:51,154 "We've got to defend Dr. King's dream. 179 00:06:51,254 --> 00:06:54,124 "That's why from now on, all Black people in Florida 180 00:06:54,157 --> 00:06:57,494 "can vote exclusively in their dreams. 181 00:06:57,594 --> 00:07:00,297 "So no need to show up anymore on Election Day, Black people. 182 00:07:00,397 --> 00:07:01,665 We did it." 183 00:07:01,765 --> 00:07:03,366 All right, but let's move on to our top story. 184 00:07:03,466 --> 00:07:05,569 Back in the day, when one country 185 00:07:05,669 --> 00:07:07,137 wanted to take over another country, 186 00:07:07,237 --> 00:07:09,673 they had to beat them in a war. 187 00:07:09,773 --> 00:07:13,209 Or they had to rent the other country on Airbnb 188 00:07:13,310 --> 00:07:14,978 and then just never leave. 189 00:07:15,078 --> 00:07:17,981 But now it looks like a country might have found a way 190 00:07:18,081 --> 00:07:21,585 to take over another country with the stroke of a pen. 191 00:07:21,685 --> 00:07:23,753 China's recently been accused of trying to take over 192 00:07:23,853 --> 00:07:25,622 Uganda's sole international airport 193 00:07:25,722 --> 00:07:27,324 if the east African country 194 00:07:27,424 --> 00:07:30,160 fails to pay a $200 million loan 195 00:07:30,260 --> 00:07:31,661 for the expansion of the site. 196 00:07:31,761 --> 00:07:32,862 NEWSWOMAN: At this rate, 197 00:07:32,963 --> 00:07:34,998 if Uganda fails to repay the loan, 198 00:07:35,098 --> 00:07:37,334 Uganda's only international airport 199 00:07:37,434 --> 00:07:39,536 will soon be a Chinese asset. 200 00:07:39,636 --> 00:07:41,104 NEWSMAN: In response to the public outcry 201 00:07:41,171 --> 00:07:43,773 over the loan agreement, the Chinese embassy in Uganda 202 00:07:43,873 --> 00:07:45,675 issued a statement saying, 203 00:07:45,775 --> 00:07:47,510 "Not a single project in Africa 204 00:07:47,611 --> 00:07:49,546 "has ever been confiscated by China 205 00:07:49,646 --> 00:07:52,582 because of failing to pay Chinese loans." 206 00:07:52,682 --> 00:07:54,985 Wait, China might be threatening 207 00:07:55,118 --> 00:07:56,987 to take Uganda's airport 208 00:07:57,120 --> 00:07:59,022 because of a loan that might not be paid? 209 00:07:59,122 --> 00:08:00,957 And-and I don't know, maybe it's just me, 210 00:08:01,057 --> 00:08:02,859 but that statement 211 00:08:02,959 --> 00:08:04,928 was not the most reassuring thing I've ever heard. 212 00:08:05,061 --> 00:08:08,265 Because, "We've never confiscated an airport" 213 00:08:08,365 --> 00:08:09,599 is very different 214 00:08:09,699 --> 00:08:12,636 from, "We're never going to confiscate an airport." 215 00:08:12,736 --> 00:08:14,804 Like, if you ask your spouse, 216 00:08:14,905 --> 00:08:16,139 "Promise me you'll never cheat on me," 217 00:08:16,239 --> 00:08:18,608 and she says, "Of course. I promise that. 218 00:08:18,708 --> 00:08:21,444 Up to now, I have never cheated on you," 219 00:08:21,545 --> 00:08:23,313 oh, she's gonna cheat on you. 220 00:08:23,413 --> 00:08:25,081 And I know what you're thinking right now. 221 00:08:25,115 --> 00:08:27,751 You're like, "I didn't even know Africa had airports." 222 00:08:27,851 --> 00:08:30,086 First of all, (bleep) you. 223 00:08:30,120 --> 00:08:32,889 We've had them since the '90s. 224 00:08:32,989 --> 00:08:34,891 And secondly, you're probably wondering 225 00:08:34,991 --> 00:08:36,660 what the hell is going on with this story? 226 00:08:36,760 --> 00:08:38,795 How can one country take another country's airport? 227 00:08:38,895 --> 00:08:41,498 Do they just take over its operations, 228 00:08:41,598 --> 00:08:44,000 or do they actually get one of those claw things 229 00:08:44,100 --> 00:08:46,403 that just scoop it up and then take it back to their country? 230 00:08:46,503 --> 00:08:49,673 And if so, can they do that to LaGuardia, too, please? 231 00:08:49,773 --> 00:08:52,943 But maybe the biggest question is what is China even doing 232 00:08:53,109 --> 00:08:55,812 in Africa in the first place? 233 00:08:55,912 --> 00:08:58,114 Well, let's find out in another installment 234 00:08:58,181 --> 00:09:00,784 of If You Don't Know, Now You Know. 235 00:09:00,884 --> 00:09:02,919 ♪ ♪ 236 00:09:08,658 --> 00:09:10,126 Africa. 237 00:09:10,227 --> 00:09:12,329 It's where I was born and raised 238 00:09:12,429 --> 00:09:14,364 and where you miss the rain from. 239 00:09:14,464 --> 00:09:16,967 Ever since the age of colonialism ended, 240 00:09:17,067 --> 00:09:19,936 Africa has been working hard to modernize its economies 241 00:09:20,070 --> 00:09:22,305 and catch up with the rest of the world. 242 00:09:22,405 --> 00:09:25,675 But to do that, it needs lots and lots of new infrastructure: 243 00:09:25,775 --> 00:09:27,510 roads, railways, 244 00:09:27,611 --> 00:09:30,080 ports, dams, Cheesecake Factories. 245 00:09:30,113 --> 00:09:33,516 You name it, Africa needs to build it. 246 00:09:33,617 --> 00:09:37,120 The only problem is that stuff all costs a shitload of money, 247 00:09:37,220 --> 00:09:39,890 money that most African countries don't have. 248 00:09:39,990 --> 00:09:41,625 But in recent years, 249 00:09:41,725 --> 00:09:44,694 many African countries have found themselves 250 00:09:44,794 --> 00:09:46,796 a new sugar daddy. 251 00:09:46,897 --> 00:09:48,531 (imitates Trump): "China." 252 00:09:48,632 --> 00:09:50,000 Over the last several decades, 253 00:09:50,100 --> 00:09:53,536 China has been pumping resources into Africa. 254 00:09:53,637 --> 00:09:57,207 The country has invested hundreds of billions of dollars 255 00:09:57,307 --> 00:09:59,509 across the continent, ranging in everything 256 00:09:59,609 --> 00:10:02,012 from transportation and infrastructure 257 00:10:02,112 --> 00:10:04,347 to real estate and technology. 258 00:10:04,447 --> 00:10:06,349 NEWSMAN: Large African infrastructure projects 259 00:10:06,449 --> 00:10:08,685 would be viewed as risky by any traditional bank 260 00:10:08,785 --> 00:10:10,620 and would therefore struggle to get financed. 261 00:10:10,720 --> 00:10:13,356 But China's Export-Import Bank doesn't care. 262 00:10:13,456 --> 00:10:15,992 This bank will give low-interest or no-interest loans 263 00:10:16,092 --> 00:10:18,728 to African countries so they can build these trains 264 00:10:18,828 --> 00:10:20,664 or dams or other projects. 265 00:10:20,764 --> 00:10:23,300 China touts the fact that their foreign investment and aid 266 00:10:23,400 --> 00:10:24,801 is no strings attached, 267 00:10:24,901 --> 00:10:27,504 with no requirements on factors like respect of human rights 268 00:10:27,604 --> 00:10:29,039 or democratic elections. 269 00:10:29,139 --> 00:10:31,541 (translated): We do not interfere 270 00:10:31,641 --> 00:10:34,544 in the internal affairs of African countries, 271 00:10:34,644 --> 00:10:37,747 impose our will on African countries 272 00:10:37,847 --> 00:10:41,651 or attach any political conditions on economic aid. 273 00:10:41,751 --> 00:10:46,256 That's right, baby. China has been making it rain in Africa. 274 00:10:46,356 --> 00:10:48,124 It's the most money anyone has sent to Africa 275 00:10:48,225 --> 00:10:50,727 without being guilt-tripped by a celebrity sing-along. 276 00:10:50,827 --> 00:10:52,529 And no strings attached, by the way. 277 00:10:52,629 --> 00:10:54,497 China doesn't care about your government 278 00:10:54,598 --> 00:10:56,666 or human rights or anything. 279 00:10:56,766 --> 00:10:59,669 They're basically the "cool mom" of international finance. 280 00:10:59,769 --> 00:11:02,339 "Oh, you and your friends, you want to come party this weekend? 281 00:11:02,439 --> 00:11:03,607 "Well, come do it in our basement 282 00:11:03,707 --> 00:11:04,841 "with your child soldiers. 283 00:11:04,941 --> 00:11:06,343 We didn't hear a thing!" 284 00:11:06,443 --> 00:11:09,446 So, in many ways, this is a great arrangement for Africa. 285 00:11:09,546 --> 00:11:11,381 But maybe it won't come as a surprise 286 00:11:11,481 --> 00:11:14,251 that China isn't just giving billions of risky loans 287 00:11:14,351 --> 00:11:17,621 to Africa out of the goodness of its heart. 288 00:11:17,721 --> 00:11:20,790 NEWSWOMAN: Many scholars suggest Beijing's true endgame 289 00:11:20,891 --> 00:11:24,194 in Africa is not solely financial 290 00:11:24,294 --> 00:11:25,662 but, rather, political. 291 00:11:25,762 --> 00:11:27,330 NEWSMAN: There is empirical evidence 292 00:11:27,430 --> 00:11:29,933 that China has been using these infrastructure investments 293 00:11:30,033 --> 00:11:31,968 to affect worldwide politics. 294 00:11:32,135 --> 00:11:34,271 It's been found that if an African country recognizes 295 00:11:34,371 --> 00:11:36,940 Taiwan as a country, they receive, on average, 296 00:11:37,040 --> 00:11:39,442 2.7 fewer Chinese infrastructure projects 297 00:11:39,542 --> 00:11:41,244 within their borders each year. 298 00:11:41,344 --> 00:11:43,013 Conversely, if an African country 299 00:11:43,146 --> 00:11:44,948 votes overwhelmingly along with China 300 00:11:45,048 --> 00:11:46,816 in the United Nations General Assembly, 301 00:11:46,917 --> 00:11:49,386 they receive 1.8 more infrastructure projects 302 00:11:49,486 --> 00:11:50,453 each year. 303 00:11:50,554 --> 00:11:52,155 NEWSMAN 2: At one point or another, 304 00:11:52,188 --> 00:11:55,792 30 African countries have had formal relations with Taiwan. 305 00:11:55,892 --> 00:12:00,397 Now Eswatini is the only African nation to recognize the island. 306 00:12:00,497 --> 00:12:02,699 Yep. That's the power of money right there. 307 00:12:02,799 --> 00:12:05,635 Enough of it can make you switch allegiances, 308 00:12:05,735 --> 00:12:07,237 change your principles, 309 00:12:07,337 --> 00:12:08,672 do anything. 310 00:12:08,772 --> 00:12:11,107 Hell, for enough money, you could probably get Africans 311 00:12:11,207 --> 00:12:13,910 to start saying that Africa is just one country. 312 00:12:14,010 --> 00:12:17,113 "Yes, yes, we are just one big country full of giraffes, huh? 313 00:12:17,214 --> 00:12:18,748 Where's-where's the money? Huh?" 314 00:12:18,848 --> 00:12:20,951 Still, China has been really successful with this. 315 00:12:21,117 --> 00:12:22,285 Out of all of Africa, 316 00:12:22,385 --> 00:12:24,721 every country has broken off relations with Taiwan, 317 00:12:24,821 --> 00:12:26,957 except Eswatini. 318 00:12:27,123 --> 00:12:30,160 Which means Eswatini either really has, like, 319 00:12:30,260 --> 00:12:31,895 principles that they stick to 320 00:12:31,995 --> 00:12:34,231 or they just haven't heard about the deal yet. 321 00:12:34,331 --> 00:12:35,865 "Good for you, Eswatini, 322 00:12:35,966 --> 00:12:38,602 refusing that money from China!" 323 00:12:38,702 --> 00:12:41,471 "What? China's giving out money? 324 00:12:41,571 --> 00:12:43,206 "Hello, Taiwan? It-It's over. 325 00:12:43,306 --> 00:12:46,476 Yeah. I-I'll come by later to get my things." 326 00:12:46,576 --> 00:12:49,179 And you might say, "Well, tough luck for Taiwan, 327 00:12:49,279 --> 00:12:51,548 "but subordinating your foreign policy to another country 328 00:12:51,648 --> 00:12:52,816 "is probably worth it if it means 329 00:12:52,916 --> 00:12:53,817 "getting all this investment. 330 00:12:53,917 --> 00:12:55,852 "I mean, think of all the jobs 331 00:12:55,952 --> 00:12:57,787 that these projects create in Africa." 332 00:12:57,888 --> 00:12:59,055 And it is true. 333 00:12:59,155 --> 00:13:01,558 These projects do create jobs. 334 00:13:01,658 --> 00:13:04,761 It's just that many of those jobs 335 00:13:04,861 --> 00:13:07,097 are going to... (a la Trump): China. 336 00:13:07,163 --> 00:13:09,666 NEWSMAN: In Africa, China's estimated to have won 337 00:13:09,766 --> 00:13:12,102 almost half of all engineering procurements 338 00:13:12,202 --> 00:13:13,904 and construction contracts. 339 00:13:14,004 --> 00:13:17,340 But those contracts haven't come without controversy. 340 00:13:17,440 --> 00:13:18,575 The country's been accused 341 00:13:18,675 --> 00:13:20,710 of unfair labor practices in Africa, 342 00:13:20,810 --> 00:13:22,512 including bringing in its own workers 343 00:13:22,612 --> 00:13:24,247 instead of hiring locally. 344 00:13:24,347 --> 00:13:27,117 NEWSMAN 2: The steady influx of Chinese companies and workers 345 00:13:27,150 --> 00:13:29,986 have fueled accusations that wealth and opportunities 346 00:13:30,120 --> 00:13:32,556 are not being shared with the local community. 347 00:13:32,656 --> 00:13:35,492 (translated): We all do the railway work, 348 00:13:35,592 --> 00:13:38,628 but the Chinese constantly say, "We're the boss. 349 00:13:38,728 --> 00:13:40,697 We're the ones who run the show." 350 00:13:40,797 --> 00:13:44,668 NEWSWOMAN: This is Ethiopia's main Chinese economic zone. 351 00:13:44,768 --> 00:13:46,937 This small business makes jeans. 352 00:13:47,037 --> 00:13:49,372 Everything is imported from China-- 353 00:13:49,472 --> 00:13:53,476 sewing machines, methods and supervisors. 354 00:13:57,414 --> 00:14:00,083 The average salary of an Ethiopian worker 355 00:14:00,150 --> 00:14:02,319 is $56 a month, 356 00:14:02,419 --> 00:14:05,755 ten times less than the average Chinese worker. 357 00:14:05,855 --> 00:14:08,558 That's right. When China invests in these projects, 358 00:14:08,658 --> 00:14:12,295 they often send over Chinese workers to Africa 359 00:14:12,395 --> 00:14:14,364 to fill all the best positions, 360 00:14:14,464 --> 00:14:15,732 which isn't right. 361 00:14:15,832 --> 00:14:17,367 I mean, the best jobs shouldn't be given to a person 362 00:14:17,467 --> 00:14:18,368 because of where they're from. 363 00:14:18,468 --> 00:14:19,736 The best jobs should be given 364 00:14:19,836 --> 00:14:22,239 to whoever has the best answers in a job interview. 365 00:14:22,339 --> 00:14:23,940 "So, what's your biggest weakness? 366 00:14:24,107 --> 00:14:26,209 And don't say 'working too hard.'" 367 00:14:26,309 --> 00:14:27,677 "Uh... 368 00:14:27,777 --> 00:14:29,546 masturbating in public?" 369 00:14:29,646 --> 00:14:30,780 "I like your honesty. 370 00:14:30,881 --> 00:14:31,882 You're hired." 371 00:14:31,982 --> 00:14:33,650 And even when Africans are employed, 372 00:14:33,750 --> 00:14:34,885 they're treated differently, 373 00:14:34,985 --> 00:14:37,120 sometimes even segregated from the Chinese workers. 374 00:14:37,220 --> 00:14:38,755 And that's wrong. 375 00:14:38,855 --> 00:14:41,558 I mean, we need Chinese and African people 376 00:14:41,658 --> 00:14:43,627 to spend more time together 377 00:14:43,727 --> 00:14:45,362 because of all the hijinks they'll get up to. 378 00:14:45,462 --> 00:14:46,696 I mean, we haven't had a Rush Hour sequel 379 00:14:46,796 --> 00:14:48,732 in, like, 20 years, guys. 380 00:14:48,832 --> 00:14:51,268 So, China is gaining control over Africa's foreign policy 381 00:14:51,368 --> 00:14:52,602 and its best jobs. 382 00:14:52,702 --> 00:14:54,604 Not to mention, a lot of these projects 383 00:14:54,704 --> 00:14:57,274 put Chinese companies in charge 384 00:14:57,374 --> 00:15:00,143 of Africa's prized natural resources, 385 00:15:00,243 --> 00:15:02,679 especially precious metals. 386 00:15:02,779 --> 00:15:05,215 Which is super important, because those precious metals 387 00:15:05,315 --> 00:15:08,218 are in basically every piece of advanced technology these days. 388 00:15:08,318 --> 00:15:11,254 I'm talking everything-- cars, appliances, 389 00:15:11,354 --> 00:15:13,223 Elon Musk, everything. 390 00:15:13,323 --> 00:15:15,492 So when you start to examine this relationship 391 00:15:15,592 --> 00:15:17,694 as a whole, it actually starts to look a lot less 392 00:15:17,794 --> 00:15:22,832 like a loan and a lot more like a new kind of colonialism. 393 00:15:22,933 --> 00:15:25,602 And that's-that's before we even get to what happens 394 00:15:25,702 --> 00:15:28,538 if the loans aren't repaid. 395 00:15:28,638 --> 00:15:31,875 NEWSWOMAN: Analysts have accused them of debt colonialism. 396 00:15:31,975 --> 00:15:33,977 There are fears China is making loans 397 00:15:34,110 --> 00:15:36,012 it knows states cannot repay. 398 00:15:36,112 --> 00:15:39,282 NEWSWOMAN 2: Beijing may engage in what critics characterize 399 00:15:39,382 --> 00:15:42,252 as debt-trap diplomacy, lending designed 400 00:15:42,352 --> 00:15:45,188 to force countries into handing over land, minerals 401 00:15:45,288 --> 00:15:49,392 and strategic assets when they default on a loan. 402 00:15:49,492 --> 00:15:50,994 NEWSMAN: To build this Belt and Road railroad 403 00:15:51,127 --> 00:15:53,630 with Chinese loans, Kenya agreed to apply Chinese law 404 00:15:53,730 --> 00:15:57,400 inside Kenya and give up East Africa's largest port 405 00:15:57,500 --> 00:15:59,536 if it couldn't repay its debts. 406 00:15:59,636 --> 00:16:00,804 NEWSMAN 2: Some countries are relying 407 00:16:00,904 --> 00:16:02,172 on gradually repaying their debts 408 00:16:02,272 --> 00:16:04,708 to China by shipping specific quantities of oil. 409 00:16:04,808 --> 00:16:06,076 NEWSWOMAN 3: Sometimes, the loans are repaid 410 00:16:06,109 --> 00:16:08,812 in natural resources, such as cobalt. 411 00:16:08,912 --> 00:16:10,881 NEWSWOMAN 4: As Africa's largest bilateral creditor, 412 00:16:10,981 --> 00:16:14,084 China holds more than 20% of the continent's debts. 413 00:16:14,117 --> 00:16:16,653 NEWSWOMAN 5: Many African countries were already crippled 414 00:16:16,753 --> 00:16:18,421 under the weight of the money they owe China. 415 00:16:18,521 --> 00:16:21,825 Now, the coronavirus pandemic has made it nearly impossible 416 00:16:21,925 --> 00:16:23,627 for many to keep up with debt payments. 417 00:16:23,727 --> 00:16:27,964 Basically, China has negotiated agreements 418 00:16:28,098 --> 00:16:29,432 with our African countries 419 00:16:29,532 --> 00:16:34,204 which are so egregious in, you know, benefiting China, 420 00:16:34,304 --> 00:16:37,807 they could take all of Africa at a fire sale price. 421 00:16:37,908 --> 00:16:40,410 Ah, yes, the debt trap. 422 00:16:40,510 --> 00:16:43,547 It's like the thirst trap of infrastructure. 423 00:16:43,647 --> 00:16:46,783 China's just strutting around with its railroads hanging out. 424 00:16:46,883 --> 00:16:50,020 What is Africa supposed to do? Not hit the light button? 425 00:16:50,120 --> 00:16:53,023 I mean, say what you want about the European colonizers, 426 00:16:53,123 --> 00:16:55,559 but at least they were upfront about it. 427 00:16:55,659 --> 00:16:57,561 (British accent): Right, we're taking all your shit, 428 00:16:57,661 --> 00:17:00,130 and if you don't like it, you can go to the U.N. 429 00:17:00,230 --> 00:17:03,633 Oh, wait, they don't exist yet, bi-atch! 430 00:17:03,733 --> 00:17:07,437 But what China is doing is a lot like terms and conditions. 431 00:17:07,537 --> 00:17:10,407 Yeah. They know Africa can't afford 432 00:17:10,507 --> 00:17:12,509 not to take the deals that they offer, 433 00:17:12,609 --> 00:17:16,179 and then, when Africa can't pay it back, the Chinese are like, 434 00:17:16,279 --> 00:17:18,448 "Right, we're taking all your shit, 435 00:17:18,548 --> 00:17:22,219 and if you don't like it, read the fine print, bi-atch!" 436 00:17:22,319 --> 00:17:24,521 So, look, this isn't a great situation for Africa. 437 00:17:24,621 --> 00:17:26,356 And the rest of the world really needs to know 438 00:17:26,456 --> 00:17:28,625 what is happening here. 439 00:17:28,725 --> 00:17:30,093 Although, if there's anything I've learned, it's that 440 00:17:30,126 --> 00:17:32,095 people don't really care about Africa. 441 00:17:32,128 --> 00:17:33,997 In fact, people don't care about most issues 442 00:17:34,097 --> 00:17:36,166 until it affects them personally, 443 00:17:36,266 --> 00:17:38,635 or until they've seen, like, a movie about it. 444 00:17:38,735 --> 00:17:41,605 I mean, these days, killers get exonerated 445 00:17:41,705 --> 00:17:44,107 because of something people watched on Netflix. 446 00:17:44,174 --> 00:17:47,244 Actually, maybe 447 00:17:47,344 --> 00:17:49,913 the only way to get people to care about Africa 448 00:17:50,013 --> 00:17:53,116 is if we turn it into a movie. 449 00:17:53,149 --> 00:17:55,185 (ominous, dramatic music playing, wind whistling) 450 00:18:04,160 --> 00:18:06,796 We're here for your airport. Hand over the keys. 451 00:18:06,897 --> 00:18:10,667 We will hand you... nothing! 452 00:18:10,767 --> 00:18:16,273 You will never understand the ways of our land or our airport! 453 00:18:16,373 --> 00:18:19,576 Too bad. Now it's China's airport. 454 00:18:19,676 --> 00:18:22,112 The runways, the terminals, 455 00:18:22,212 --> 00:18:25,782 the soggy tuna sandwiches that we made in 2019-- it's all ours! 456 00:18:25,882 --> 00:18:28,552 But the terms of this deal are unfair! 457 00:18:28,652 --> 00:18:32,389 Well, then maybe you shouldn't have agreed to it. Duh! 458 00:18:32,489 --> 00:18:34,891 We had no choice! Tell him, man! 459 00:18:34,991 --> 00:18:36,993 ♪ ♪ 460 00:18:42,599 --> 00:18:44,134 Stop daydreaming about Zendaya! 461 00:18:44,234 --> 00:18:46,803 Come on, man! China's about to take control of our airport. 462 00:18:46,903 --> 00:18:49,205 -Focus! -Sorry. I'm sorry. I focused. 463 00:18:49,306 --> 00:18:53,410 China, you are taking advantage of Africa's plight, 464 00:18:53,510 --> 00:18:55,245 locking us into onerous contracts 465 00:18:55,345 --> 00:18:57,113 so that you can plunder our resources, huh? 466 00:18:57,147 --> 00:18:58,448 And by the way, when I say "China," 467 00:18:58,548 --> 00:19:00,183 I'm talking about the Chinese government, huh? 468 00:19:00,283 --> 00:19:01,651 I'm not talking about Chinese people, of course. 469 00:19:01,751 --> 00:19:02,919 -Mm-hmm. -You know, nothing against Chinese people. 470 00:19:03,053 --> 00:19:04,921 Of course. I mean, #StopAsianHate. 471 00:19:05,055 --> 00:19:06,423 Well, what are you going to do about it? 472 00:19:06,523 --> 00:19:09,926 Huh? This is the best deal you're going to get. 473 00:19:10,060 --> 00:19:12,729 People can only be oppressed so long 474 00:19:12,829 --> 00:19:15,699 before those people eventually get tired 475 00:19:15,799 --> 00:19:18,268 of oppression and stand up! 476 00:19:18,368 --> 00:19:20,770 Am I right? 477 00:19:20,870 --> 00:19:23,807 ♪ ♪ 478 00:19:23,907 --> 00:19:27,611 Stop thinking about Zendaya, man! 479 00:19:27,711 --> 00:19:30,313 We're about to lose the airport! 480 00:19:30,413 --> 00:19:32,315 I don't know why I keep doing it. 481 00:19:32,415 --> 00:19:33,483 Maybe she's got a plan for us. 482 00:19:33,583 --> 00:19:34,818 Maybe there's a deal, huh? 483 00:19:34,918 --> 00:19:36,086 It's not just daydreaming. You know what? 484 00:19:36,119 --> 00:19:37,387 Let me go and try and find this lady. 485 00:19:37,487 --> 00:19:38,755 You talk to this China guy, huh? 486 00:19:38,855 --> 00:19:41,892 I'll get back to you, huh? 487 00:19:41,992 --> 00:19:44,127 I hope you get eaten by a big-ass worm! 488 00:19:44,227 --> 00:19:46,696 Wait. This is part one? 489 00:19:46,796 --> 00:19:49,432 How long is this movie? 490 00:19:49,532 --> 00:19:51,468 Sorry, guys. That would have been better quality 491 00:19:51,568 --> 00:19:53,436 if I had a budget, but I didn't want 492 00:19:53,536 --> 00:19:54,938 to take any money from China. 493 00:19:55,105 --> 00:19:56,940 All right, when we come back, we'll get a preview 494 00:19:57,107 --> 00:19:58,742 of the season's hottest Christmas movie. 495 00:19:58,842 --> 00:20:00,610 You don't want to miss it. 496 00:20:02,889 --> 00:20:04,157 Welcome back to The Daily Show. 497 00:20:04,257 --> 00:20:06,159 It is officially the holiday season, 498 00:20:06,259 --> 00:20:08,995 the time of year when we gather around the tree 499 00:20:09,095 --> 00:20:11,731 and sing classic holiday songs that we realize halfway through 500 00:20:11,831 --> 00:20:13,533 are super creepy. 501 00:20:13,633 --> 00:20:15,701 It's also the time when TV networks 502 00:20:15,802 --> 00:20:18,204 drop dozens of holiday movies 503 00:20:18,304 --> 00:20:20,807 where white people meet and fall in love 504 00:20:20,907 --> 00:20:22,909 thanks to the power of Christmas. 505 00:20:23,009 --> 00:20:25,244 It's a tradition that we at The Daily Show 506 00:20:25,344 --> 00:20:26,712 want to get in on. 507 00:20:26,813 --> 00:20:28,414 So please enjoy this trailer 508 00:20:28,514 --> 00:20:32,118 for our own upcoming holiday movie. 509 00:20:32,218 --> 00:20:34,253 ♪ ♪ 510 00:20:36,122 --> 00:20:38,024 ANNOUNCER: She was a single mom 511 00:20:38,124 --> 00:20:39,792 hoping for a Christmas miracle. 512 00:20:39,892 --> 00:20:41,828 Hi. Do you have time for a charity that's... 513 00:20:41,928 --> 00:20:45,998 He was a regular Joe trying to do the right thing. 514 00:20:46,099 --> 00:20:48,935 And this Christmas, they're going to find love 515 00:20:49,035 --> 00:20:50,770 in the most magical way. 516 00:20:50,870 --> 00:20:54,173 How dare you teach my child about critical race theory? 517 00:20:54,273 --> 00:20:56,109 You are ruining America. 518 00:20:56,209 --> 00:20:57,844 -(others whooping) -MAN: Ma'am. Ma'am. 519 00:20:57,944 --> 00:20:59,712 Please calm down. 520 00:20:59,812 --> 00:21:02,048 Don't tell me to calm down, you woke elitist. 521 00:21:02,148 --> 00:21:04,016 And why don't you take that mask off? 522 00:21:04,117 --> 00:21:05,985 Take it off and face me like a man. 523 00:21:06,052 --> 00:21:07,820 -OTHERS: Yeah! -(clapping) 524 00:21:07,987 --> 00:21:10,523 ♪ ♪ 525 00:21:10,623 --> 00:21:12,992 (quietly): And keep it off. 526 00:21:13,025 --> 00:21:14,660 (exhales) 527 00:21:16,395 --> 00:21:18,598 (quietly): Looks like Santa came early this year. 528 00:21:18,698 --> 00:21:22,769 Now, this holiday, they'll both be learning CRT: 529 00:21:22,869 --> 00:21:25,271 Christmas Romance Theory. 530 00:21:25,371 --> 00:21:28,274 You know, oat milk is more sustainable than almond milk. 531 00:21:28,374 --> 00:21:30,910 Oh, shut your cuck mouth and kiss me. 532 00:21:31,010 --> 00:21:33,246 ♪ ♪ 533 00:21:35,915 --> 00:21:39,118 But can two people who don't agree on history 534 00:21:39,218 --> 00:21:41,020 ever have a future? 535 00:21:41,120 --> 00:21:43,322 Does your sweater say "Happy Holidays"? 536 00:21:43,423 --> 00:21:45,658 Yeah, it's more inclusive. 537 00:21:45,758 --> 00:21:48,027 You never understood me. 538 00:21:49,729 --> 00:21:52,298 Or Christmas. 539 00:21:52,398 --> 00:21:54,033 Aw, man. 540 00:21:54,100 --> 00:21:56,769 We're never gonna end up together now. 541 00:21:59,138 --> 00:22:02,508 This season, one man will have to put Christmas... 542 00:22:02,608 --> 00:22:04,777 over reason. 543 00:22:04,877 --> 00:22:07,079 Since our last school board meeting, 544 00:22:07,180 --> 00:22:09,015 which was only this morning... 545 00:22:09,115 --> 00:22:10,850 Can you believe that? So much has happened. 546 00:22:10,983 --> 00:22:12,852 I've learned that one thing 547 00:22:12,985 --> 00:22:14,754 is more important than teaching children 548 00:22:14,854 --> 00:22:17,156 about their own country's history. 549 00:22:17,256 --> 00:22:18,624 And that one thing 550 00:22:18,724 --> 00:22:20,993 is love. 551 00:22:21,060 --> 00:22:22,361 -(sighs) -So tonight, 552 00:22:22,462 --> 00:22:24,697 the school board is announcing that we are putting love 553 00:22:24,797 --> 00:22:26,232 -back into the curriculum. -What? 554 00:22:26,332 --> 00:22:28,167 And it will replace all the lessons about slavery. 555 00:22:28,267 --> 00:22:30,403 (cheering and applause) 556 00:22:31,537 --> 00:22:34,140 No, no, no. We're overruling that. 557 00:22:34,240 --> 00:22:37,410 No, he doesn't have the power to do that. 558 00:22:37,510 --> 00:22:40,079 Why does he have a gavel? This is a school board meeting. 559 00:22:40,179 --> 00:22:43,883 ANNOUNCER: Don't miss the movie event of the season. 560 00:22:47,220 --> 00:22:48,287 I got you this. 561 00:22:49,555 --> 00:22:51,257 (paper tearing) 562 00:22:55,528 --> 00:22:57,029 To burn. 563 00:23:02,969 --> 00:23:06,205 (crying): Oh. Merry Christmas. 564 00:23:08,708 --> 00:23:10,343 Fascists. 565 00:23:13,546 --> 00:23:16,149 ANNOUNCER: A School Board Christmas. 566 00:23:16,249 --> 00:23:18,151 ♪ ♪ 567 00:23:19,118 --> 00:23:21,387 Ooh, I can't wait to angrily watch that. 568 00:23:21,487 --> 00:23:25,091 All right, when we come back, the finance minister of France, 569 00:23:25,191 --> 00:23:27,527 Bruno Le Maire, will be joining me 570 00:23:27,627 --> 00:23:29,996 right here in the studio, so don't go away. 571 00:23:31,298 --> 00:23:32,599 Welcome back to The Daily Show. 572 00:23:32,699 --> 00:23:35,168 My guest tonight is French finance minister Bruno Le Maire. 573 00:23:35,268 --> 00:23:37,137 He's here to talk about the relationship 574 00:23:37,237 --> 00:23:39,039 between France and America 575 00:23:39,139 --> 00:23:41,675 and how the country is responding to the challenges, 576 00:23:41,775 --> 00:23:44,578 from COVID all the way through to Russia. 577 00:23:44,678 --> 00:23:46,413 Mr. Le Maire, welcome to the show. 578 00:23:46,513 --> 00:23:48,415 -Thank you. Good evening. -Thank you so much 579 00:23:48,515 --> 00:23:51,218 for joining us here today, um, especially during this time. 580 00:23:51,318 --> 00:23:53,887 I feel like you're one of the best people 581 00:23:53,987 --> 00:23:56,356 who I could speak to about one other country 582 00:23:56,456 --> 00:23:58,859 that's central to the direction that Europe is gonna be taking 583 00:23:58,959 --> 00:24:00,260 in the coming years. 584 00:24:00,360 --> 00:24:02,395 Let's maybe start with the biggest question, 585 00:24:02,495 --> 00:24:04,297 the pressing question. 586 00:24:04,397 --> 00:24:06,466 Great Britain has left the European Union. 587 00:24:06,566 --> 00:24:10,504 Angela Merkel is stepping down after 16 years, 588 00:24:10,604 --> 00:24:12,539 you know, leading the European bloc. 589 00:24:12,639 --> 00:24:14,541 France is now seen as one of the key players 590 00:24:14,641 --> 00:24:16,543 that has to step into a role of guiding Europe 591 00:24:16,643 --> 00:24:17,811 in a certain direction. 592 00:24:17,911 --> 00:24:20,280 But it feels like, with COVID, with Russia, 593 00:24:20,380 --> 00:24:23,483 with the world's economy, there is a lot to do. 594 00:24:23,583 --> 00:24:26,453 What is France's plan for moving Europe forward? 595 00:24:26,553 --> 00:24:28,588 And is it an optimistic outlook? 596 00:24:28,688 --> 00:24:31,658 Very optimistic. And our plan is quite clear. 597 00:24:31,758 --> 00:24:33,260 We want a stronger Europe, 598 00:24:33,393 --> 00:24:35,996 we want a Europe that will be more independent, 599 00:24:36,096 --> 00:24:39,232 and we want France to play a key role 600 00:24:39,399 --> 00:24:42,235 in this "building back better" of Europe. 601 00:24:42,402 --> 00:24:45,872 I'm totally against this way of thinking, 602 00:24:45,972 --> 00:24:48,542 that France would be on decline. 603 00:24:48,642 --> 00:24:51,077 France is absolutely not on decline. 604 00:24:51,178 --> 00:24:52,879 France is booming, 605 00:24:52,979 --> 00:24:54,581 Europe is booming, 606 00:24:54,681 --> 00:24:57,450 and our best years are for our children. 607 00:24:57,551 --> 00:24:59,419 It's interesting that you say France is booming 608 00:24:59,519 --> 00:25:01,421 and France is not on the decline, 609 00:25:01,521 --> 00:25:03,223 and yet there are people in France 610 00:25:03,323 --> 00:25:05,125 who may feel the opposite. And I only say this 611 00:25:05,225 --> 00:25:06,726 -Yes, you're right. -Because what I've learned 612 00:25:06,826 --> 00:25:08,695 in America, and we learn it all around the world, 613 00:25:08,795 --> 00:25:10,664 is the reality may not necessarily match 614 00:25:10,764 --> 00:25:12,265 the perception that some people have, 615 00:25:12,432 --> 00:25:14,301 and that perception can oftentimes be more powerful 616 00:25:14,434 --> 00:25:16,536 -in terms of determining who gets to lead. -I fully agree, 617 00:25:16,636 --> 00:25:20,440 but, you know, we want to avoid a kind of Trump's experience 618 00:25:20,507 --> 00:25:21,875 -in France. -Interesting. 619 00:25:21,975 --> 00:25:24,578 I really think that it would not be the best way for France. 620 00:25:24,678 --> 00:25:27,013 -Mm-hmm. -But we have 30% or 35% 621 00:25:27,113 --> 00:25:29,516 of the French population which stands ready 622 00:25:29,616 --> 00:25:32,719 -to vote for far-right parties. -Right. 623 00:25:32,819 --> 00:25:35,155 So we need, we need to understand why. 624 00:25:35,255 --> 00:25:37,090 I think that there is a question of identity. 625 00:25:37,190 --> 00:25:39,059 There is a question of fear. 626 00:25:39,159 --> 00:25:42,662 People, uh, are concerned by, uh, the COVID. 627 00:25:42,762 --> 00:25:44,898 People are concerned by the rise of China. 628 00:25:44,998 --> 00:25:47,634 People are concerned by their own identity. 629 00:25:47,734 --> 00:25:50,403 -Yeah. -And we need to respond to those questions 630 00:25:50,470 --> 00:25:54,307 while avoiding new divisions in the French society. 631 00:25:54,407 --> 00:25:56,009 Once again, we don't want to live 632 00:25:56,109 --> 00:25:58,478 what you have lived with the Trump experience 633 00:25:58,578 --> 00:25:59,913 in the United States. 634 00:26:00,013 --> 00:26:01,414 Let's talk a little bit about some of those things. 635 00:26:01,515 --> 00:26:02,949 You recently had a debate 636 00:26:03,049 --> 00:26:06,052 with, um, a far-right conservative 637 00:26:06,152 --> 00:26:09,623 in-in France who, you know, is on a news program 638 00:26:09,723 --> 00:26:11,157 that is... that is very far right, 639 00:26:11,258 --> 00:26:13,593 and some people would say, "Gee, it's similar to Fox News." 640 00:26:13,693 --> 00:26:15,462 And he-he's planning to run in the country, 641 00:26:15,562 --> 00:26:17,764 and he's stoking those fears and those divisions. 642 00:26:17,864 --> 00:26:19,866 I-I would love to know, if we start with identity, 643 00:26:19,966 --> 00:26:21,268 'cause that's a key one in France. 644 00:26:21,434 --> 00:26:24,171 France has always had this beautiful idea. 645 00:26:24,271 --> 00:26:25,839 Forget religion, forget your race, 646 00:26:25,939 --> 00:26:27,140 forget everything else. 647 00:26:27,240 --> 00:26:28,942 We are French, and we are French together. 648 00:26:29,042 --> 00:26:32,946 It seems like there is now starting to be a rift 649 00:26:33,046 --> 00:26:34,247 between some who say 650 00:26:34,381 --> 00:26:37,184 being French is only attainable fully 651 00:26:37,284 --> 00:26:39,286 if you are white and a Francophile 652 00:26:39,386 --> 00:26:42,189 or being French is only fully attainable 653 00:26:42,289 --> 00:26:44,057 if-if you are willing to, you know, 654 00:26:44,157 --> 00:26:46,293 get rid of all of your-your cultural ideas. 655 00:26:46,393 --> 00:26:49,396 And some argue that being French only should be reserved 656 00:26:49,462 --> 00:26:51,665 for people who are white and of European descent. 657 00:26:51,765 --> 00:26:53,733 How do you... how do you bring those two worlds together 658 00:26:53,834 --> 00:26:55,535 without anyone feeling alienated 659 00:26:55,635 --> 00:26:57,838 but also trying to get to that-that ideal? 660 00:26:57,938 --> 00:26:59,873 But I think it would be a total mistake 661 00:26:59,973 --> 00:27:01,608 to think that you can only be French 662 00:27:01,708 --> 00:27:03,810 if you are, uh, white 663 00:27:03,910 --> 00:27:06,580 and if, uh, you have heirs 664 00:27:06,680 --> 00:27:09,716 of 100, 200 or 300 years. 665 00:27:09,816 --> 00:27:12,219 -Mm-hmm. -I think it would really be a mistake. 666 00:27:12,319 --> 00:27:14,421 You can be Black. You can be white. 667 00:27:14,521 --> 00:27:16,089 You can be a Muslim. 668 00:27:16,189 --> 00:27:18,191 You can be Jew. You can be Catholic. 669 00:27:18,291 --> 00:27:20,760 You can come from Brittany, or you can come from Morocco. 670 00:27:20,861 --> 00:27:22,262 That's not an issue 671 00:27:22,429 --> 00:27:25,198 provided that you love France. 672 00:27:25,298 --> 00:27:27,434 I've de-debated with Éric Zemmour. 673 00:27:27,467 --> 00:27:30,770 He's pretending like Zorro. Zed. 674 00:27:30,871 --> 00:27:33,607 -Yes. -He's pretending to rescue the people. 675 00:27:33,707 --> 00:27:36,443 He's not rescuing the people. 676 00:27:36,543 --> 00:27:38,011 He's dividing the people. 677 00:27:38,111 --> 00:27:41,481 He's filling the people with fear 678 00:27:41,581 --> 00:27:42,849 and with hate. 679 00:27:42,949 --> 00:27:46,386 That's exactly what we want to fight against. 680 00:27:46,419 --> 00:27:48,688 You know, there is, um, an American dream 681 00:27:48,788 --> 00:27:51,758 based on the possibility to become rich 682 00:27:51,858 --> 00:27:53,126 and to be successful. 683 00:27:53,226 --> 00:27:54,995 -Right. -I like the American dream. 684 00:27:55,095 --> 00:27:57,197 But there is also a French dream 685 00:27:57,297 --> 00:27:59,633 which is based on freedom, 686 00:27:59,733 --> 00:28:01,701 which is based on equality, 687 00:28:01,801 --> 00:28:04,204 which is based on fraternity. 688 00:28:04,304 --> 00:28:07,607 -We are all responsible for the future of the nation. -Hmm. 689 00:28:07,707 --> 00:28:10,177 And that's the key point of the French dream. 690 00:28:10,277 --> 00:28:13,613 I have the French dream in the roots of my heart. 691 00:28:13,713 --> 00:28:15,815 And I will fight against those people 692 00:28:15,916 --> 00:28:18,919 which are trying to divide the French society, 693 00:28:19,019 --> 00:28:22,789 which are trying to put the people against one each other, 694 00:28:22,889 --> 00:28:26,026 because I really think that it cannot be the future for France. 695 00:28:26,126 --> 00:28:29,029 Do you think France could do a better job of... 696 00:28:29,129 --> 00:28:31,531 giving everybody access to the French dream 697 00:28:31,631 --> 00:28:32,732 -who is in France? -Yes. 698 00:28:32,833 --> 00:28:34,201 You know, like, we-we've seen stories 699 00:28:34,367 --> 00:28:36,670 of people who have names-names 700 00:28:36,770 --> 00:28:38,471 like Diallo not getting interviews 701 00:28:38,572 --> 00:28:39,739 or people who are Muslim 702 00:28:39,840 --> 00:28:41,408 struggling to integrate into French culture. 703 00:28:41,508 --> 00:28:43,043 Do you think France could do a better job of that? 704 00:28:43,143 --> 00:28:45,579 Yes. Yes, let's-let's be very frank. 705 00:28:45,679 --> 00:28:47,681 We could do a far better job, 706 00:28:47,781 --> 00:28:50,116 and we have to take into account the difficulties 707 00:28:50,217 --> 00:28:53,053 of the people, uh, who are of foreign origins 708 00:28:53,153 --> 00:28:55,155 who are trying to do their best to be successful 709 00:28:55,255 --> 00:28:56,556 in the French society 710 00:28:56,656 --> 00:29:00,227 to, uh, have access to the highest position. 711 00:29:00,393 --> 00:29:02,629 And they are facing big hurdles. 712 00:29:02,729 --> 00:29:04,531 We should get rid of those hurdles, 713 00:29:04,631 --> 00:29:07,934 and we should make its place for everybody, 714 00:29:08,034 --> 00:29:10,170 which is sticking the right decisions 715 00:29:10,270 --> 00:29:13,707 and which is doing its best efforts to be successful. 716 00:29:13,807 --> 00:29:16,743 I think that we can do far better on that field. 717 00:29:16,843 --> 00:29:19,212 Let's talk a little bit about geopolitics. 718 00:29:19,312 --> 00:29:22,048 Right now, one of the biggest pressing issues in Europe 719 00:29:22,148 --> 00:29:24,284 is the conversation around Russia. 720 00:29:24,417 --> 00:29:26,486 I know that President Macron recently spoke 721 00:29:26,586 --> 00:29:29,189 to the president of Russia, Vladimir Putin, 722 00:29:29,289 --> 00:29:31,258 and it seems like all of these discussions, 723 00:29:31,358 --> 00:29:33,159 whether it's with Putin, whether it's with Biden, 724 00:29:33,260 --> 00:29:35,362 seem affable on the surface. 725 00:29:35,395 --> 00:29:37,264 But on the border of Ukraine, 726 00:29:37,364 --> 00:29:38,598 there's an army that has gathered, 727 00:29:38,698 --> 00:29:40,100 and-and Europe seems to be worrying 728 00:29:40,200 --> 00:29:41,201 about what that might mean. 729 00:29:41,368 --> 00:29:43,470 Now, most countries seem to believe 730 00:29:43,570 --> 00:29:46,106 that any militaristic intervesh-- intervention 731 00:29:46,206 --> 00:29:47,908 would be the worst possible outcome. 732 00:29:48,008 --> 00:29:49,242 We see Afghanistan. We see the world. 733 00:29:49,376 --> 00:29:50,944 People do not have an appetite for war. 734 00:29:51,044 --> 00:29:53,380 However, many people wonder 735 00:29:53,413 --> 00:29:55,448 what the European Union would do 736 00:29:55,549 --> 00:29:57,450 if Russia were to invade Ukraine. 737 00:29:57,551 --> 00:30:00,620 Uh, is there any idea of a plan in place? 738 00:30:00,720 --> 00:30:02,822 The plan is to be very clear 739 00:30:02,923 --> 00:30:05,058 towards Vladimir Putin. 740 00:30:05,158 --> 00:30:09,596 If there is any attempt to, uh, the Ukraine border, 741 00:30:09,696 --> 00:30:13,667 then the consequences for Russia will be very bad. 742 00:30:13,767 --> 00:30:15,202 And, you know, there is one thing 743 00:30:15,302 --> 00:30:17,604 that we should really a-avoid, 744 00:30:17,704 --> 00:30:20,440 which is any kind of military action. 745 00:30:20,540 --> 00:30:23,243 Because military action is never the solution. 746 00:30:23,410 --> 00:30:24,878 So we have been very clear, 747 00:30:24,978 --> 00:30:27,013 both President Biden and President Macron, 748 00:30:27,113 --> 00:30:29,783 we will never accept any attempt 749 00:30:29,883 --> 00:30:32,652 and any threat against Ukraine. 750 00:30:32,752 --> 00:30:36,122 Do you think financial sanctions will be enough as a threat? 751 00:30:36,223 --> 00:30:39,893 Financial san-sanctions, uh, might be a possibility 752 00:30:39,993 --> 00:30:41,862 but not the only one. 753 00:30:41,962 --> 00:30:44,531 Another conversation in and around France-- 754 00:30:44,631 --> 00:30:46,066 very dear to my heart, obviously, 755 00:30:46,166 --> 00:30:48,535 coming from the continent-- is the conversation between-- 756 00:30:48,635 --> 00:30:51,972 or around France and its former colonies. 757 00:30:52,072 --> 00:30:55,775 For a long time, many Africans have felt like France-- 758 00:30:55,876 --> 00:30:57,277 And not alone in this, you know? 759 00:30:57,377 --> 00:30:58,612 The same thing with Great Britain, et cetera-- 760 00:30:58,712 --> 00:31:00,947 has done a terrible job 761 00:31:01,047 --> 00:31:04,050 in reconciling with its past actions in Africa 762 00:31:04,150 --> 00:31:06,019 to Africans, 763 00:31:06,119 --> 00:31:07,220 who speak French, 764 00:31:07,387 --> 00:31:08,822 who have lived under the French for so long 765 00:31:08,922 --> 00:31:10,824 and who now say, "We are struggling 766 00:31:10,924 --> 00:31:13,293 because of a past of colonialism." 767 00:31:13,393 --> 00:31:16,096 What do you think France could be doing better on the continent 768 00:31:16,196 --> 00:31:17,764 to try and right some of its wrongs? 769 00:31:17,864 --> 00:31:19,132 I mean, we know we live in a world 770 00:31:19,232 --> 00:31:20,700 where everyone was conquered, everyone was invaded, 771 00:31:20,800 --> 00:31:22,302 so I'm not even saying it's a blame thing. 772 00:31:22,402 --> 00:31:23,904 Do you think there's something France could be doing 773 00:31:24,004 --> 00:31:25,505 to try and improve the relationship 774 00:31:25,605 --> 00:31:28,408 between these African countries and the country of France? 775 00:31:28,475 --> 00:31:32,445 I think that we are doing our best to, uh, try to be... 776 00:31:32,546 --> 00:31:34,347 reconciliation. 777 00:31:34,414 --> 00:31:36,816 -And reconciliation is the key word, of course. -Mm-hmm. 778 00:31:36,917 --> 00:31:39,920 Reconciliations means understanding the past 779 00:31:40,020 --> 00:31:41,688 of all those countries. 780 00:31:41,788 --> 00:31:45,859 Reconciliation means that you have to be respectful. 781 00:31:45,959 --> 00:31:48,495 Reconciliation also means providing help 782 00:31:48,595 --> 00:31:49,729 to those countries. 783 00:31:49,829 --> 00:31:51,998 You were just speaking about COVID. 784 00:31:52,098 --> 00:31:54,668 -COVID is a nightmare for everybody. -Right. 785 00:31:54,768 --> 00:31:56,736 But what the hell. If you have all 786 00:31:56,837 --> 00:31:58,672 the Western countries being successful 787 00:31:58,772 --> 00:32:00,373 in fighting against COVID, 788 00:32:00,473 --> 00:32:04,444 and you have African countries without the possibility 789 00:32:04,544 --> 00:32:08,381 of fighting COVID and facing the pandemic, 790 00:32:08,481 --> 00:32:10,617 the result will be negative for all of us. 791 00:32:10,717 --> 00:32:12,619 -Right. Definitely. -So helping the other countries 792 00:32:12,719 --> 00:32:14,287 could be also a solution. 793 00:32:14,387 --> 00:32:15,922 The last point on that. 794 00:32:16,022 --> 00:32:19,559 The economic, um, support that we are giving 795 00:32:19,659 --> 00:32:21,595 to African countries is absolutely key. 796 00:32:21,695 --> 00:32:25,999 You run the risk of having a new, great divergence 797 00:32:26,099 --> 00:32:27,767 -from an economic point of view... -Mm. 798 00:32:27,868 --> 00:32:28,902 between the European continent 799 00:32:29,002 --> 00:32:30,871 and the United States on the one side, 800 00:32:30,971 --> 00:32:32,939 -and African countries on the other side. -Right. 801 00:32:33,039 --> 00:32:37,143 We should definitely fight against that big gap 802 00:32:37,244 --> 00:32:38,712 between the two continents. 803 00:32:38,812 --> 00:32:42,349 Are you doing anything to try and insulate African countries 804 00:32:42,382 --> 00:32:44,885 from China and the influence that they're in? 805 00:32:44,985 --> 00:32:46,353 -Because it seems like a new type... -Good question. 806 00:32:46,453 --> 00:32:47,988 It seems like a new type of colonization. 807 00:32:48,088 --> 00:32:51,258 Very good question. I think that there is the old type 808 00:32:51,358 --> 00:32:55,428 of colonization, and we are trying to build reconciliation. 809 00:32:55,529 --> 00:32:57,397 And there is a new type-- 810 00:32:57,497 --> 00:33:00,233 I would not use the word "colonization"-- 811 00:33:00,367 --> 00:33:01,902 -but a type of influence... -Mm-hmm. 812 00:33:02,002 --> 00:33:03,370 -which is a hard one... -Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. 813 00:33:03,436 --> 00:33:06,006 coming from China, and we are explaining 814 00:33:06,106 --> 00:33:08,575 to all African countries that we have 815 00:33:08,675 --> 00:33:12,913 to build a new partnership based on an equal footing. 816 00:33:13,013 --> 00:33:15,081 -Equal footing is absolutely key. -Mm-hmm. 817 00:33:15,182 --> 00:33:16,449 And maybe they could be 818 00:33:16,550 --> 00:33:18,885 a little bit more cautious vis-a-vis China. 819 00:33:18,985 --> 00:33:20,620 Well, Minister Le Maire, thank you so much for coming here. 820 00:33:20,720 --> 00:33:22,522 -Thank you, Trevor Noah. Thank you so much. -Thanks. 821 00:33:22,622 --> 00:33:24,291 We're going to take a quick break, 822 00:33:24,391 --> 00:33:26,393 but we'll be right back after this. 823 00:33:28,661 --> 00:33:29,963 Well, that's our show for tonight, but before we go, 824 00:33:30,063 --> 00:33:32,966 please consider supporting Vibrant Emotional Health. 825 00:33:33,066 --> 00:33:34,534 They're a non-profit dedicated 826 00:33:34,634 --> 00:33:36,970 to helping people achieve emotional well-being 827 00:33:37,070 --> 00:33:38,671 and to giving them the support 828 00:33:38,772 --> 00:33:40,473 and the skills that they need to survive. 829 00:33:40,573 --> 00:33:42,809 So, if you want to support them in their work, 830 00:33:42,909 --> 00:33:45,245 especially during the stressful holiday season, 831 00:33:45,345 --> 00:33:48,214 then please donate at the link below. 832 00:33:48,314 --> 00:33:50,116 Until next time, stay safe out there, 833 00:33:50,216 --> 00:33:52,619 get your vaccine, and remember: 834 00:33:52,719 --> 00:33:56,189 if China offers you money to make your life better, 835 00:33:56,289 --> 00:33:58,258 you take that money and run. 836 00:33:58,358 --> 00:34:00,927 Now here it is-- Your Moment of Zen. 837 00:34:01,027 --> 00:34:03,897 (playing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow") 838 00:34:03,997 --> 00:34:10,403 ♪ Somewhere past the pandemic ♪ 839 00:34:10,503 --> 00:34:14,808 ♪ When we're free ♪ 840 00:34:14,908 --> 00:34:19,679 ♪ There's a life I remember ♪ 841 00:34:19,779 --> 00:34:24,083 ♪ Full of activity ♪ 842 00:34:24,184 --> 00:34:30,490 ♪ Somewhere past the pandemic ♪ 843 00:34:30,590 --> 00:34:34,360 ♪ We'll hug our friends ♪ 844 00:34:34,461 --> 00:34:38,932 ♪ And thank the people in science ♪ 845 00:34:39,032 --> 00:34:44,771 ♪ That brought the pandemic's end ♪ 846 00:34:44,871 --> 00:34:47,574 ♪ Let's end ♪ 847 00:34:47,674 --> 00:34:50,210 ♪ COVID ♪ 848 00:34:50,343 --> 00:34:54,347 ♪ Now. ♪