Table.Briefings

Feature

Mocking over US failure in Afghanistan

The defeat of the USA in Afghanistan and the subsequent takeover by the Taliban is observed with malicious glee by Beijing. Washington is called a paper tiger that cannot even defeat the Taliban. But the US stands to lose far more than another piece of prestige.

By Michael Radunski

Moment of truth for high-tech megadeal

The US chip company Nvidia will soon have to submit its planned takeover of Arm to the EU competition regulators for review. The 40-billion deal is also of strategic importance for Europe. It could fail because of China.

By Till Hoppe

CEO Talk Michaela Heinke

"The Chinese are better at waiting and persevering"

No German doctor has been in China longer than Dr. Michaela Heinke. She has treated countless Germans and Chinese and accompanied Dax CEOs on their travels. Her clinic in Beijing is not a joint venture, but entirely German. Heinke talks with Frank Sieren about the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine, the advantages of Western and Chinese hospitals, and measures to combat Covid.

By Frank Sieren

Summit and Toolbox: What happens after the EU summer break?

The August summer break for staff in Brussels reaches its halfway point this week. In just over two weeks' time, the political business will resume in the EU's center of power. The remaining four months of the year still have their work cut out for them when it comes to China policy. The EU still has a number of open issues on its agenda, the CAI and sanctions being just two of them. A look at the to-do list and events after the summer break.

By Amelie Richter

Dispute between India and China intensifies

India is massively expanding its troop strength at its border to China by sending more than 50,000 additional soldiers to the north. A closer look at the numbers of both countries, however, shows India's struggles in maintaining the balance of power due to an inferior economy compared to China – Indian now could feel backed into a corner. A war between both nuclear powers is nevertheless very unlikely.

By Frank Sieren

China's propaganda in Western media

China is taking advantage of the economic hardships of Western publishers to buy itself reputable platforms for its propaganda. In the US, but also in Germany, large sums of money flow into advertisements and inserts in renowned newspapers and magazines. Things could hardly go any better for Beijing. Because this provides the People's Republic a platform for the public display of its political interests.

By Marcel Grzanna

Ready for the turnaround? Shipping to pay for emissions

Shipping is to contribute to climate protection and be included in European emissions trading. For many, however, the EU Commission's proposal does not go far enough. Experts criticize that the initiative to switch to more climate-friendly fuels is also unsuitable.

By Timo Landenberger

Unable to speak: what ails Germany's EU policy

The German government often takes too long to position itself on EU projects – and thus gambles away influence in Brussels. The reasons lie deep in the tectonics of the Berlin government apparatus. Berlin now wants to do better with the Green Deal.

By Till Hoppe

Entertainment as approved by the party

China's youth is seeking their freedom in music, consumption and the entertainment industry. Kris Wu, China's Justin Bieber, is one of the big stars of the pop scene with millions of followers on Weibo. Now, Wu faces allegations of sexual misconduct. China's authorities are fond of using such allegations to their advantage. With new rules of conduct for actors and celebrities, they are narrowing the space for personal freedom and prosperity in culture.

By Ning Wang

Harsh sentences for Canadians cause tension

Three Canadians have been caught up in the geopolitical maelstrom surrounding the possible extradition of Vancouver-based Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou to the US. They are currently held in custody in China. Two tough sentences were handed down this week. Relations between Canada and China are at an all-time low – as the verdict of Meng's extradition trial draws near.

By Christiane Kuehl