

Xi Jinping seeks allies amid tariff war with Trump
Apr 14, 2025
Zoe Grunewald, Westminster editor at The Lead, and Michał Kaminski, Deputy Marshal of the Polish Senate, dive into Xi Jinping's diplomatic tour in Southeast Asia, showcasing China's efforts to strengthen ties amidst U.S. tariff threats. They discuss the political shifts in Ecuador and how these events intertwine with global trade dynamics. The conversation also touches on Poland's strengthened defense posture and U.S. relations, highlighting the complexities of international politics in a rapidly changing world.
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Xi Jinping's Southeast Asia Visit
- Xi Jinping’s visit to Southeast Asia is likely a strategic move to consolidate regional support.
- This comes as Trump's tariffs strain US relations in the region, presenting an opportunity for China.
China's Regional Influence
- China aims to become a stronger regional voice, capitalizing on Trump's tariff narrative.
- Xi Jinping will likely encourage a joint denouncement of the tariffs during his visit to Malaysia, the current ASEAN secretariat.
Vietnam's Balancing Act
- Vietnam benefited from previous US-China tariffs by becoming an alternative manufacturing hub.
- This led to significant growth in northern Vietnam, particularly Haiphong, but also attracted higher US tariffs.