International Relations NewsFeed

April 2, 2025

Germany Warns of Trade War Costs with US

Germany's government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit stated that trade wars have costs for both sides, warning of potential expenses for Berlin as it is "ready and willing to negotiate at the European level with the United States" to avoid such disputes.

https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/cost-of-trade-war-can-become-expensive-for-both-sides-germany-to-us-8070234

April 2, 2025

Global Cooperation Trumps National Sovereignty Concerns

Many still hold on to the idea that cooperation with outside forces weakens national sovereignty, but in today's interconnected world, where economies are deeply intertwined and global challenges like climate change, cybercrime, and terrorism know no borders, this perspective is no longer practical or desirable.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/04/03/opinion/columns/a-more-pragmatic-view-of-sovereignty/2085250

April 2, 2025

Greece Commits to Buying F-35 Fighter Jets Despite Opposition

Greece is overhauling its military spending and personnel structure, with a focus on cooperation with France, Israel, and the US. The overhaul aims to address a top-heavy command structure and includes greater inclusion of local tech start-ups. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis recently met with Israeli defence officials and dismissed opposition calls to abandon plans to buy F-35 fighter jets in favour of European alternatives, describing it as a "long-term investment".

https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/02/greece-to-spend-25-billion-over-next-decade-on-hi-tech-overhaul-of-military

April 2, 2025

India Monitors Trump Tariff Threats Closely

The Indian government has set up a control room to monitor US President Donald Trump's announcements regarding reciprocal tariffs against key trading partners, including India. Senior officials from ministries such as commerce and industry will be present for close watch of the announcements. The commerce ministry is working on four possible scenarios to assess the potential fallout of these tariffs, which could impact India's exports if duties are imposed at a country, sector or product level.

https://www.news18.com/india/control-room-to-monitor-trumps-tariff-announcements-sources-9284703.html

April 2, 2025

India's Electronics Industry Faces 7.2% Tariff Hit

India's electronics industry may face a 7.2% impact due to US tariffs, but sectors like petroleum, minerals, and garments are likely to be less affected. The country's tariffs remain consistent with the World Trade Organisation, which allows developing nations to retain higher tariffs in exchange for trade regulations that favor wealthy countries. Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's good relationship is expected to mitigate any damage from high tariffs. Experts believe that additional US duties on Canadian imports could make them less competitive, creating opportunities for Indian exports, particularly in sectors such as electrical machinery, auto components, pharma, and chemical.

https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/how-donald-trump-liberation-day-tariffs-may-impact-india-and-the-silver-lining-8066660#pfrom=home-ndtv_premium

April 2, 2025

Japan Threatens Tariff Countermeasures Against US

Japan may use its leverage to negotiate with the US over new tariffs set to take effect later this week. It could offer voluntary restraints on exports or increase purchases from the US to reduce the trade surplus between the two countries. The US will impose a 25% tariff on cars and car parts starting Thursday, while President Donald Trump plans separate reciprocal tariffs starting Wednesday.

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2025/04/02/economy/tariff-japan-cards/

April 2, 2025

Jordan's King Meets with German Officials in Amman

His Majesty King of Jordan met with representatives from Germany's government and industry leaders to discuss opportunities for investment and cooperation in areas such as energy, technology, agriculture, and financial services. The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ayman Safadi, Director Alaa Batayneh, and Ambassador Fayez Khouri, following a prior meeting with German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck.

https://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/king-meets-representatives-german-companies-economic-institutions

April 2, 2025

Lighthizer to Address Tariffs on European Aircraft

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer is set to address the nation regarding proposed tariffs on European goods in response to a long-standing dispute over aircraft subsidies. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between the US and EU, with the Trump administration seeking to level the playing field for American plane manufacturers. Mr. Lighthizer's comments are expected to be closely watched by industry leaders and policymakers worldwide.

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20250402IPR27601/new-tariffs-by-the-trump-administration-press-conference-thursday-9-00

April 2, 2025

Mar-a-Lago Accord Targets US Trade Deficit Reduction

The "Mar-a-Lago Accord" is a proposed international agreement aimed at reshaping America's role in the global economy, with the goal of revitalizing American manufacturing and reducing the US trade deficit. The plan, which has been compared to the Plaza Accord of the 1980s, involves devaluing the dollar, similar to what was done in the 1980s, which some believe led to Japan's "lost decades". This could have significant implications for China's economy, which is often likened to Japan's economy of the 1980s.

https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3304925/what-mar-lago-accord-and-will-it-really-crash-chinas-economy?module=top_story&pgtype=section