Economist Podcasts
Trump’s fickle, Xi’s pickle: the dynamic driving US-China tensions
Apr 17, 2025
David Rennie, Geopolitics editor at The Economist, and John Fasman, Senior culture correspondent at The Economist, dive into the contrasting negotiating styles of President Xi Jinping and Donald Trump, illuminating how this shapes US-China tensions. They discuss the chaotic and unpredictable tactics of Trump versus Xi's methodical approach. The podcast also touches on the troubling migrant crisis affecting Spain, revealing heartbreaking stories behind the statistics, and ends on a lighter note with the surprising resurgence of competitive pinball.
24:57
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Quick takeaways
- The psychological standoff between the U.S. and China is exacerbated by Trump's erratic negotiation style versus Xi's calm approach.
- The alarming rise in migrant deaths in the Mediterranean highlights systemic failures in healthcare and legal responses within Spain.
Deep dives
Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Dynamics
The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China have revealed vulnerabilities on both sides, particularly as tariffs have escalated. China's strategy includes reinforcing alliances in Southeast Asia and Europe, with President Xi Jinping emphasizing the importance of stable trade partnerships. In contrast, the U.S. is facing challenges due to its chaotic negotiation style, particularly under the unpredictable leadership of Donald Trump, which complicates dealing with a disciplined Chinese Communist Party. This situation results in a psychological game of chicken, where both nations claim to hold the upper hand while the potential for economic fallout looms.
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