Ep 190: EU solidarity jabbed — Vaccine passports — China relations

<p>POLITICO's Sarah Wheaton joins podcast regulars Andrew Gray and Rym Momtaz to discuss the implications of an increasing number of EU countries shopping outside the bloc for their vaccines. Where's the solidarity when some are turning to Russia or China even though those jabs haven't been approved by European health authorities?</p><p>We also break down the European Commission's proposal to create Digital Green Passes, which could make it easier for vaccinated Europeans to travel abroad. The panel looks at the challenges of creating these and other types of immunity certificates, which are being considered by countries around the globe.</p><p>Then we turn our focus to China and its economic relationship with Europe. POLITICO's EU-China Correspondent Stuart Lau dives into the details of the EU's recent investment agreement with Beijng, and brings us one perspective on economic relations from an Italian academic and former government minister, Michele Geraci. Be sure <a href="https://www.politico.eu/china-direct/">to subscribe</a> to Stuart's brand new, weekly newsletter, China Direct. You can read the first edition <a href="https://www.politico.eu/newsletter/china-direct/politico-china-direct-party-pow-wow-natos-eyes-on-china-vaccine-diplomacy/">here</a>.</p><p>The podcast panel returns with recommendations to get you through lockdown, starting with a <a href="https://twitter.com/Nigella_Lawson">foodie-focused Twitter account</a> recommended by Sarah. Rym is feeling nostalgic after listening to <a href="https://www.franceculture.fr/emissions/les-nuits-de-france-culture/une-journee-avec-serge-gainsbourg">a podcast</a> featuring a classic French crooner. Andrew gets in just before the final whistle with <a href="https://www.netflix.com/be-en/title/81074673">a Netflix documentary</a> about a footballing great that also tackles politics.</p>