Laura Bicker

Anthony Zurcher, a Senior North America correspondent, dissects the political landscape around Trump's potential return. Asma Khalid shares insights on electoral risks for Republicans and the internal debates within the Democratic Party. Faisal Islam examines the economic implications of new tariffs and the rise of AI in the market. Laura Bicker reports on China's tech ambitions and the ongoing Taiwan tensions. Meanwhile, Lyse Doucet highlights fragile peace prospects in Ukraine and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Laura Bicker, BBC's China correspondent and expert on rare earth mining, shares her firsthand insights from crucial mining hubs in China. She discusses the rising demand for rare earths, deemed vital for renewable energy, while revealing the environmental costs tied to their extraction. Laura highlights the dichotomy between economic benefits and ecological damage, shedding light on China's dominance in this arena. The conversation also touches on the implications for global competition in rare earth minerals and a mysterious climate satellite that's gone missing!

Laura Bicker, BBC China correspondent in Beijing, provides context on the PM’s China visit and recent shifts in the country’s military leadership. Joe Pike, BBC political correspondent, unpacks local by-election dynamics and leasehold reform impacts. Simon Jack, BBC Business Editor, explains the Treasury’s targeted support for pubs and the business rates reversal. Short, punchy conversations on politics, trade ties and pub relief.

Laura Bicker, BBC China correspondent, brings her insights from Beijing, while Mariko Oi, host of Asia Specific, adds her expertise on regional dynamics. They dive into China's ambitious military and technological advancements, exploring the implications of Xi Jinping's consolidation of power. The discussion touches on the Belt and Road initiative, contrasting how China's neighbors perceive its growing influence, and the potential risks surrounding Taiwan. They also analyze the lasting impact of Trump's presidency on US-China relations, shaping the future of global power.

Ione Wells, a South America correspondent for BBC News, and Laura Bicker, BBC’s senior China correspondent, dive deep into urgent climate issues. They discuss Brazil's slowed efforts to reduce Amazon deforestation and the alarming implications of proposed oil drilling in the region. Meanwhile, Bicker highlights China's ambitious hydropower project, which promises renewable energy but raises environmental concerns and regional tensions. Their insights uncover the complex interplay between economic growth and urgent ecological needs in two pivotal countries.