In simple terms, the quote suggests that there are clear-cut positions on certain issues such as human rights, which either support or oppose them fully. The speaker implies that it's inconsistent for one country to borrow heavily from another and then criticize that country over its treatment of human rights. It’s akin to saying you can't be both pregnant and not pregnant at the same time.
The deeper meaning of this quote points towards the complexity of international relations and the ethical dilemmas countries face when balancing economic interests with moral values. The speaker argues that nations should either maintain strong, principled stances on issues like human rights or refrain from criticizing others if they benefit economically from those relationships. This perspective highlights the tension between political correctness and practical self-interest in diplomatic dealings. It also touches upon the idea of selective morality, where countries might choose to overlook certain issues when it aligns with their strategic interests.
Dambisa Moyo is a well-known economist and author who has written extensively on global financial systems and economic development. She often discusses the interplay between economics and politics in her work, making her insights particularly relevant to understanding the complexities of international relations as highlighted in this quote.
