The Monocle Daily
Trade wars, political comebacks and sojourns in Pyongyang?
Feb 4, 2025
Latika Bourke, a prominent writer on international affairs, joins Robin Brant, former China correspondent for the BBC, and Peter Eriksson, Sweden's ambassador to Finland. They dive into China's reaction to Trump's tariff threats and unpack the intriguing trend of political comebacks. The trio discusses the complex tourism appeal of geopolitically sensitive areas like North Korea and the implications of Finland and Sweden's NATO membership amid rising tensions with Russia. Expect lively anecdotes and sharp insights on this fascinating landscape!
39:26
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Quick takeaways
- The dynamics of Trump’s trade war reveal China's strategic economic retaliation, indicating a calculated response rather than overt conflict.
- The resurgence of seasoned politicians in contemporary politics highlights a longing for familiar leadership amidst challenges in attracting new talent.
Deep dives
The Impact of Trump's Trade War on China
The dynamics of Donald Trump's trade war with China highlight significant implications for both economies. China is targeting specific American exports, including soybeans and trucks, as a strategic response to U.S. tariffs. This approach suggests a calculated retaliation, indicating that China's economic landscape has evolved, allowing it to prepare adequately since the onset of the trade conflict. The ongoing tension appears to function as a bargaining tactic, reflecting room for negotiation rather than an outright economic conflict.
