Author Analyzes Chinese Proverb Usage in Geopolitical Commentary

Hong Kong-based writer Ngan Shun-kau examines the political implications of two Chinese proverbs invoked by Chinese officials regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In his analysis, Ngan interprets the sayings 'it takes two hands to clap' and 'only he who tied the bell on the tiger can untie it' as rhetorical devices that obscure moral judgments and deflect responsibility. The author, who participated in China's Cultural Revolution and later worked in Hong Kong publishing, draws on his political observations to critique what he describes as cynical approaches in international diplomacy. This commentary was originally published on the author's social media account in 2022.