Shows
Al Daily Podcast296 - ¿Qué libros de mi infancia conservo aún hoy?Estos son los libros que aún conservo de mi infancia:- De la editorial Miñón (colección “Las campanas”) conservo los siguientes títulos: - Veintinueve historias disparatadas, Ursula Wölfel - China, China, capuchina, en esta mano está la china, Carmen Bravo-Villasante - La Torre, Montserrat del Amo - Los progresos del pingüino, Jill Tomlinson - La bruja doña Paz, Antonio Robles - El búho que tenía miedo a la oscuridad, Jill Tomlinson - Los ángeles j...2025-07-2208 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Independent Podcasting in Chinese with Ruohan XieIn this episode, we dive into the challenges and opportunities of hosting a pan-cultural podcast in China, exploring what resonates with the younger generation and the daily struggles they face. We discuss the unique experience of a Chinese journalist reporting to both Chinese and Western audiences, navigating the complexities of bridging these two worlds. The conversation also touches on the role of podcasts in fostering alternative spaces for discussing taboo topics, including feminist activism in China, and the changing media landscape. Finally, we explore how podcasts can serve as a less-censored medium for communication in an increasingly controlled environment.2025-07-1630 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Uncovering Sino-Indian Relations with Sriparna PathakIn this episode, we delve into the intricate and often tense relationship between Asia's two giants - China and India. Our expert guest unpacks the multifaceted challenges shaping this critical bilateral relationship, from the persistent Himalayan border disputes to strategic concerns over China's massive dam projects in Tibet and their potential weaponization of water resources. The conversation explores India's delicate diplomatic balancing act between competing power blocs, navigating its roles in both the China-led BRICS and the US-centered Quad alliance while maintaining its tradition of strategic autonomy. This geopolitical examination extends to India's cautious position on Taiwan and culminates...2025-06-1832 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Discussing Chinese EV Industry in Europe with Janka Oertel and Jakub JakobowskiIn this episode, we explore the growing presence of Chinese electric vehicle companies like BYD and Leapmotor in Europe, challenging the region’s automotive dominance despite efforts like EU tariffs. The story unfolds with Germany's industrial base grappling with the "second China shock," revealing how its overreliance on China has left it vulnerable in the face of shifting global dynamics. As Central and Eastern Europe finds itself caught between German supply chains and increasing Chinese influence, the episode delves into the consequences of this dependency and the tough choices facing these economies. We also explore how Europe is being fo...2025-05-2129 min
Women LeadersChina, the world, and power with Dr Ivana KaráskováDuring his gold plated visit to Saudi Arabia this week, Donald Trump made a speech in which he noted that the US would no longer be “giving you lectures on how to live” advising the people and states of the region to establish “your own destinies in your own way.” No more nation building and interventions, no more aid and business conditioned upon democracy and human rights, and no more post WW2 values based international order. Money, deals and hard power is the new United States policy in the world. The local regimes lapped this up, and autocrats and dictators around...2025-05-1642 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Sino-Russian Partnership and Intelligence Cooperation with Sanshiro HosakaIn this episode, we delve into the complexities of Sino-Russian intelligence cooperation, examining whether their partnership is truly boundless or if there are limits to their collaboration. We explore how historical experiences have influenced their contemporary intelligence strategies and the dynamics of their cooperation both before and after the Sino-Soviet rapprochement. Additionally, we discuss the independent nature of their respective intelligence agencies, the role of Taiwan in Russia's operations against China, and the intricacies of managing intelligence-related issues. Finally, we look at how their intelligence operations intersect in regions like the Indo-Pacific and Europe. This episode is part of...2025-05-0730 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)NataliyaIn this thought-provoking episode, we examine the geopolitical ripple effects of Russia's invasion of Ukraine across the Indo-Pacific region, with special focus on China's diplomatic positioning and evolving Asian responses. Our expert guest unpacks the strategic realignment between Ukraine and South Korea as they navigate the challenges posed by deepening Russia-North Korea military cooperation. The conversation offers fresh insights into the emerging power dynamics reshaping security architecture across continents, revealing how new alliances between authoritarian states are transforming international relations in both Europe and Asia.This month's guest: Nataliya Butyrska is an independent expert...2025-04-3027 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Discussing Chinese Economic Coercion with Gabrielius LandsbergisDisclaimer: This episode has been recorded in February 2025.In this exploration of Lithuania's bold diplomatic stance on Taiwan, Lithuania’s former Foreign Minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis provides a first-hand account of navigating the complex geopolitical tensions between Beijing, Taipei, and Vilnius. The conversation examines China's escalating pressure tactics following Lithuania's controversial decision to open a Taiwanese representative office, offering valuable lessons for democracies confronting authoritarian coercion. Our guest analyzes the strategic linkages between Russia's war in Ukraine and Indo-Pacific security challenges, evaluating NATO's evolving approach to China and questioning whether Western powers are sending appropriate deterrence signals. The ep...2025-04-2324 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Countering the "Axis of Evil" Alliance with Kateryna MusiienkoWhen discussing Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, we often focus on its broader, pan-European implications. In doing so, we sometimes overlook the profound local impact on Ukrainian communities, with individual stories only occasionally reaching the mainstream. How has the war affected the Ukrainian people as a nation, and how are they coping? What has Ukraine discovered about the so-called "Axis of Evil" warfare alliance through its analysis of Russian military technology? How does China support the Russian military? We explore these questions - and much more - with Kateryna Musiienko.This month's gu...2025-04-0228 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Future of Japan's Defense with Nobushige TakamizawaAs China continues to speak about "peaceful reunification" while raising regional tensions, and Donald Trump's new administration takes full effect, Japan faces growing uncertainty. Despite maintaining a strong working relationship with president Trump during his first term, Japan can no longer fully count on U.S. military intervention. What does this mean for Japan’s future, and what steps will it take next?This month's guest: Nobushige Takamizawa is currently Visiting Professor at the University of Tokyo. Before coming back to Tokyo, he served as Ambassador of Japan to the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva from December 2016 to...2025-03-1923 min
America Builds039: Congressman Gabe AmoCongressman Gabe Amo is the U.S. representative for Rhode Island's 1st congressional district.Our conversation touches on public service and the importance of engaging with constituents, the unique story of Rhode Island, and the strategic significance of the "blue economy." We also get into national security, discussing the state of NATO, the implications of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the challenges posed by China, particularly regarding Taiwan.Outline02:43 The journey into public service05:24 Engaging with constituents11:01 Understanding the blue economy15:44 National security and...2025-03-0334 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)China's Military Modernization with Meia NouwensSince Xi Jinping's rise to power, China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) has been undergoing extensive reforms. From increasing defense spending, to investing in new technological capabilities and learning from Russia's war in Ukraine, China has been set on transforming its military into a top-tier force. In this episode, Meia Nouwens discusses China's road to military modernization under Xi Jinping as China's President as well as the chairman of the Central Military Commission. This month's guest:Meia Nouwens is a Senior Fellow for Chinese Security and Defence Policy at IISS, specializing in China’s defence ind...2025-02-1333 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #50: Beyond Novi Sad - The Future of Sino-Serbian Relations with Stefan VladisavljevIn November 2024, a tragic roof collapse at Novi Sad’s train station claimed 15 lives and ignited nationwide protests in Serbia. But what really happened? Who bears responsibility? And how do Chinese firms and their involvement in the station's reconstruction fit into the bigger picture? In this episode, we explore the fallout of this disaster, its impact on Serbia’s politics, and the potential effects on Sino-Serbian relations with expert insight from Stefan Vladisavljev.
This month's guest:
Stefan Vladisavljev holds program director position at Foundation BFPE for a Responsible Society since April of 2024. Prio...2025-01-1626 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #49: Unpacking the 2024 US Election Results with Vivian Wu and Maria RepnikovaThe results of the 2024 US presidential election are set to shape the future of global politics, with potentially far-reaching effects on the balance of power, international relations, and economic strategies. How do key players like China perceive this pivotal moment, and what might a second Trump term mean for the evolving dynamics between the US, China, and Russia? Dive into this episode for an in-depth look at these critical developments and their implications.
This month's guests:
Vivian Wu - CEO & Founder of Dasheng Media
Maria Repnikova - Scholar of China political communication, Associate Professor at Georgia...2024-12-1228 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #48: Combatting Malign Influence in Cyberspace with Puma ShenIn recent years, countries like Russia, Iran and China have started to ramp up their efforts to influence public opinion, interfere in democratic process, and undermine democratic regimes. Influence operations, including propaganda, disinformation, and psychological warfare have become one of the key avenues through which powers aim to exert influence. Taiwan, which is under continuous and growing pressures from China, has been at the forefront of developing strategies to increase population's resilience and effectively combat threats stemming from malign influence operations. So what is the current state of Taiwan's information ecosystem and what can the EU learn from Taiwan...2024-11-1425 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #47: Introducing WiCH - Women Insight on China with Ivana KaráskováDespite growing interest in China and its global role, women analysts in Europe face several challenges, including limited access to professional networks, underrepresentation, and a lack of visibility. WiCH is a proactive response to these challenges, aiming to build a pan-European community where women in China studies can thrive. By fostering connections, providing mentorship, and amplifying the contributions of women, the initiative seeks to address gender imbalance and ensure diverse perspectives in China-related research and policy discussions.
This month's guest
Ivana Karásková, China Team Lead at Association for International Affairs (AMO)
Show notes
In...2024-10-0820 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #46: EV and Critical Raw Material Supply Chains with Dominika RemžováAmidst the broader geopolitical tensions, the EU-China relations have seen significant changes. De-risking, economic security and strategic autonomy are at the forefront of such changes, with electric vehicle and raw material supply chains driving the EU’s concerns. As the EU continues down the de-risking path, we discuss the anti-subsidy probe into made-in-China electric vehicles and the Critical Raw Materials Act, with a special focus on their implications for the CEE region.
This month's guest
Dominika Remžová, China Analyst at Association for International Affairs (AMO)
Show notes
From Zero to Hero? Chinese Investment in Electric Vehi...2024-09-1224 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #45: Indo-Pacific Series: North Korea with Niklas SwanströmNorth Korean regime has increasingly benefited from deepening cooperation with Russia, a development not fully welcomed by its traditional ally, China. North Korea has supplied the Russian Federation with munitions and other military equipment in exchange for food, raw materials, and components for weapons manufacturing. This growing partnership enables North Korea to circumvent international sanctions, sustain its regime, and bolster its military capabilities, further complicating regional and global security dynamics.
This month's guest
Dr. Niklas Swanström, Director of the Institute for Security and Development Policy
Show notes
EU-Taiwan Semiconductor Supply Ch...2024-08-2221 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #44: Indo-Pacific Series: The Role of the EU with Abigaël VasselierThe European Union's engagement in the Indo-Pacific has grown significantly in recent years, driven by the region's strategic importance and economic dynamism. The EU aims to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific through enhanced cooperation with regional partners like Japan, India, and ASEAN. Moreover, it has become increasingly clear that Europe and Asia are not separate theatres but are deeply intertwined.
This month's guest
Abigaël Vasselier, Head of Program Foreign Relations at MERICS.
Show notes
China-Russia alignment: a threat to Europe's security
Navigating Taiwan relations in 2024: Practical considerations f...2024-08-0625 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #43: Indo-Pacific Series: US-Taiwan Relations with Bonnie GlaserIn recent years, we have seen increased tensions in the Taiwan Strait. China has intensified its military drills around the island and increased coercive tactics against Taiwan, sparking debates about a potential contingency. Discussions revolve around whether Beijing might choose a blockade or a full-scale invasion to alter the status quo. The role of the U.S. and the EU will be crucial in maintaining stability in the Strait and deterring China from making unilateral changes to the current situation.
This month's guest
Bonnie Glaser, Managing Director of the German Marshall Fund's Indo-Pacific Program.
2024-07-1726 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #42: Indo-Pacific Series: Military Perspectives with May-Britt StumbaumNATO's growing interest in the Indo-Pacific region has stemmed from the Alliance's recognition of the strategic implications of China's rise. Furthermore, the war in Ukraine has underscored the growing geopolitical interdependence between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. That is why NATO has strengthened dialogue and cooperation with its partners in the Indo-Pacific region – Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand and NATO members have increased their presence in the region.
This month's guest
Prof. Dr. May-Britt U. Stumbaum, Professor of Security Studies and Strategic Competition at the George C. Marshall Center and Director of...2024-07-0325 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #42: Indo-Pacific Series: Military Perspectives with May-Britt StumbaumNATO's growing interest in the Indo-Pacific region has stemmed from the Alliance's recognition of the strategic implications of China's rise. Furthermore, the war in Ukraine has underscored the growing geopolitical interdependence between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. That is why NATO has strengthened dialogue and cooperation with its partners in the Indo-Pacific region – Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand and NATO members have increased their presence in the region.
This month's guest
Prof. Dr. May-Britt U. Stumbaum, Professor of Security Studies and Strategic Competition at the George C. Marshall Center and Director of...2024-07-0326 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #41: Breaking Down China's Interference Activities with Justin BassiAustralia has been a prominent target of China's foreign interference. Beijing has been involved in various covert operations, including cyber espionage, attempts to infiltrate local politics, and efforts to sway public opinion through media and social platforms. Chinese government-linked entities have been accused of leveraging Chinese student associations to promote Beijing's agenda. Hacker groups associated with Beijing have carried out attacks against the computer networks of the Parliament and the three main political parties, as well as individual MPs who are part of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC). Furthermore, an Australian politician was offered a financial contribution in...2024-06-2028 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #40: Unpacking the EU-China EVs Standoff with Gregor SebastianIn October 2023, The European Commission launched an anti-subsidy investigation into the imports of Chinese battery electric vehicles. Furthermore, the commission has instructed customs authorities to start registering the import of electric vehicles from China so that the EU could impose retroactive tariffs. As the decision day on whether to impose definitive duties approaches, Beijing becomes increasingly agitated. Meanwhile, Chinese carmakers BYD and Geely-owned Volvo are ramping up investments in electric vehicle (EV) production across Central Europe, with other companies likely to follow suit. While these investments are generally welcomed by local governments, they are viewed by some as posing...2024-06-0519 min
MERICS China PodcastChina and the European Parliament election, with Ivana Karásková and Grzegorz StecAhead of the European Parliament election on June 6-9, 2024, this episode looks at the role of the European Parliament in EU-China relations and the possible impact of the election results on the European “de-risking” agenda among other topics. Johannes Heller-John talks to Ivana Karásková and Grzegorz Stec. Ivana is a European China Policy Fellow at MERICS and the founder of MapInfluenCE and China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe (CHOICE) at the Association for International Affairs (AMO) in Prague. Grzegorz is the Head of the MERICS Brussels Office.Recentl...2024-05-3134 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #39: Eyes on Xi Jinping’s Visit to France with Abigaël VasselierIn early May, Chinese President Xi Jinping made a state visit to France to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France. This visit, his first to Europe since the pandemic began, occurred against the backdrop of the EU investigation into Chinese electric vehicle exports and Beijing’s retaliatory probe into imports of French-made brandy. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, participated in the tripartite meeting, adding a European dimension to the discussions. The leaders jointly urged Xi to tackle issues related to China’s overcapacity in electric vehicles and green technologies and addr...2024-05-1115 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #38: Debunking Myths Around Sino-Russian Relations with Thomas EderWhile it is true that China has served as a crucial economic support for Russia during the war in Ukraine, it has not fully compensated for the decline in Russian export revenue from the EU. Beijing has supplied Moscow with dual-use goods and technology but there has been no direct provision of lethal military equipment from China to Russia, as the Chinese government and businesses are wary of triggering Western secondary sanctions and losing access to the European market. Thus, It is unlikely that the Chinese government and defense companies will substantially support Russia with heavy weaponry and ammunition...2024-05-0132 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #37: Unpacking Hungary's Relationship with China with Szabolcs PanyiIn the past few years, Hungary has seen a surge in new investments from Chinese companies in the EV industry. Chinese battery and EV makers have been attracted by the favorable political climate and generous state support. Additionally, Hungary and China have been working towards closer collaboration in the areas of policing and security. During a recent visit by China's Minister of Public Security, Wang Xiaohong, the two countries signed a series of agreements aimed at improving cooperation in these areas. This will allow Chinese police to patrol alongside Hungarian police on Hungarian soil. As a result of these...2024-03-2928 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #36: Assessing the European Economic Security Package with Tobias GehrkeIn January 2024, the European Commission revealed five new initiatives aimed at advancing the implementation of its Economic Security Strategy, which was formally introduced in the summer of the previous year. The proposal seeks to tighten inbound investment screening rules and create greater export control conformity within the EU. With regard to outbound investment screening, which is the most controversial issue of the package, the Commission remains relatively sober. The strategy calls for a risk assessment of outbound investment and related security issues through a public consultation process. The package puts a strong focus on research security. However, there is...2024-02-1421 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #35: Unpacking Taiwan's Election with Michael MazzaDespite Beijing’s attempts to influence the elections, Taiwan’s commitment to democracy has prevailed, and the people of Taiwan elected their new leader last week. William Lai, from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), emerged victorious in the recent presidential race. This result is likely to sustain the status quo in cross-strait relations, characterized by continued tensions and limited dialogue. Beijing’s reaction to the elections has been relatively muted compared to the massive incursions following US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in 2022. However, Nauru’s announcement to sever ties with Taiwan and establish relations with Beijing ca...2024-01-2015 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #34: Taiwan Election Insights with Marcin JerzewskiThe 2024 presidential election in Taiwan holds great significance as it will determine the future of Taiwan's relationship with China, the United States, and the rest of the world. Though the West often views Taiwan's elections through the lens of cross-strait relations and the risk of Beijing's invasion, most Taiwanese voters are more concerned with domestic issues such as housing policy, low wages, and energy security. The elections will also reflect how the Taiwanese people view their national identity and sovereignty. The three candidates have different strategies for dealing with the cross-strait issues and enhancing Taiwan's global presence. Contrary to...2024-01-1036 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #33: Discussing Prague Castle's China Policy with Petr KolářAfter the honeymoon period of Czech-China relations that started in 2013, the bilateral ties gradually soured. This shift was linked to the perceived lack of benefits stemming from economic cooperation and various security-related events that gave rise to skepticism regarding the profitability and viability of closer ties with China. The current government, sworn in 2021, has been cautious towards Beijing and has worked towards improvement of ties with Taiwan. In March this year, Speaker of the Parliament Markéta Pekarová Adamová led a strong delegation to Taipei, resulting in the signing of a number of business deals and establishing cooperation between aca...2023-12-2834 min
Amo ViajarAmo Viajar - Jujuy: un tren solar recorrerá la Quebrada de HumahuacaLa formación, adquirida a la compañía china CRRC por el Gobierno de Jujuy, está equipada con baterías de litio, que lo convierte en un sistema 100% sustentable, con dos duplas con capacidad para 70 pasajeros sentados. Es único en su tipo en el país. Federico Posadas, ministro de Cultura y Turismo de Jujuy, nos da toda la información.2023-12-1514 min
Voice for CHOICE (China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe)Voice for CHOICE #32: China and the EU in the Global Semiconductor Race with Mathieu DuchâtelIn recent years, the US imposed a set of restrictions on exports of advanced semiconductors and chipmaking equipment to China. While China’s nanoelectronics sector has been cut off from access to leading technology necessary to produce cutting-edge chips competitively, side effect of the restrictions has been China‘s growing market share in mature nodes as it doubles down on self-reliance. In face of the global chip shortage and Europe’s struggles to keep pace with the global semiconductor industry, the bloc decided to boost its own domestic chip production through the EU Chips Act. The legislation aims to streng...2023-11-2934 minMERICS China PodcastCountering Chinese disinformation in the EU, with Ivana Karásková and Grzegorz StecHow have Chinese attempts to shape the public opinion in Europe evolved? How does it differ from Russian disinformation? And how does the EU try to counter it? In this episode of the MERICS China Podcast, Johannes Heller-John talks to Ivana Karásková and Grzegorz Stec. Ivana is a European China Policy Fellow at MERICS and the founder of projects MapInfluenCE and China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe (CHOICE) at Association for International Affairs (AMO) in Prague. She is also a Special Advisor to Vice-President of the European Commission Věra Jourová, for...2023-11-2438 min