Meaning: This quote by Laurent Fabius, a French statesman, highlights the significant impact of the demographic weight of countries like China and India on global wages and salaries. Fabius points out that these countries have achieved substantial technological advancements, particularly in the field of information technology, which has in turn reduced the costs of transport. This has led to a situation where the labor markets in these countries exert substantial pressure on wages and salaries worldwide.

China and India, as two of the world's most populous countries, possess a large workforce, which has contributed to their demographic weight in the global labor market. The sheer size of their populations means that they have a large pool of labor resources, which can impact the wages and salaries of workers in other countries. This is particularly evident in industries where labor-intensive manufacturing or service provision is a significant component of the economic activity.

Moreover, Fabius emphasizes the technological advances that China and India have accomplished. Both countries have made significant strides in the development and adoption of information technology. This has led to increased efficiency, productivity, and connectivity within their economies. As a result, businesses in these countries have been able to leverage technology to streamline their operations, reduce costs, and enhance their global competitiveness.

The revolution in information technology, as mentioned by Fabius, has played a crucial role in reshaping the global economic landscape. The widespread adoption of digital technologies has facilitated the seamless flow of information, reduced barriers to trade and communication, and transformed the way businesses operate. This has led to increased interconnectedness and interdependence among economies, resulting in a more integrated global labor market.

Furthermore, Fabius points out that the revolution in information technology has reduced the costs of transport. This is a significant development that has had far-reaching implications for global trade and the movement of goods and services. The ability to transport goods more efficiently and cost-effectively has opened up new opportunities for international trade and commerce. It has also enabled businesses to access a broader range of suppliers and markets, further intensifying competition in the global economy.

In light of these factors, the pressure exerted by the demographic weight of countries like China and India on wages and salaries is a multifaceted phenomenon. On one hand, the availability of a large and relatively inexpensive labor force in these countries has led to outsourcing and offshoring of jobs from higher-wage countries. This has contributed to downward pressure on wages in certain industries and occupations, particularly in sectors where labor can be easily outsourced or replaced by technology.

On the other hand, the technological advancements and cost reductions associated with information technology and transport have also created new opportunities for businesses to access global markets and optimize their supply chains. This has led to increased specialization and efficiency in production, as well as the emergence of new industries and business models that leverage global labor and resources.

In conclusion, Laurent Fabius's quote underscores the profound impact of the demographic weight, technological advances, and the revolution in information technology in countries like China and India on global wages and salaries. The interplay of these factors has reshaped the dynamics of the global labor market, leading to both challenges and opportunities for workers, businesses, and economies around the world. As the forces of globalization continue to evolve, it is essential for policymakers, businesses, and workers to adapt to these changes and find ways to harness the benefits while addressing the challenges posed by the shifting global economic landscape.