2024 US Election Results Live: Germany’s leadership in Europe crucial after US election, says economy minister Habeck
In the wake of the recent US presidential election, Germany’s role in Europe has grown more indispensable, stated Economy Minister Robert Habeck on Wednesday. Amid a climate of global uncertainty, Habeck underscored the importance of Germany’s involvement in European affairs, emphasizing that internal budget discussions are advancing with “clarity and seriousness.”
Addressing concerns about coalition stability ahead of the Nov. 14 budget committee meeting, Habeck commented, “The only consequence of this election result in the USA can be that Germany cannot be absent from Europe. And I believe that the talks are now being conducted with the same clarity and seriousness.”
As the European Union faces an evolving geopolitical landscape, Habeck’s remarks point to Germany’s dedication to stability and proactive leadership in Europe, with Germany expected to play an increasingly critical role in shaping regional policies and strengthening EU unity.
2024 US Election Results Live: Experts predict tough road ahead for China under a second Trump presidency
As Donald Trump nears a return to the White House, experts say China can brace for another turbulent four years marked by tariffs, trade tensions, and unpredictable rhetoric—though Trump’s well-known flexibility in negotiations could provide Beijing some room to maneuver.
Following Trump’s election night near victory, world leaders, including Chinese officials, expressed cautious hopes for “peaceful coexistence” with the U.S. However, experts warn that Sino-U.S. relations could face heightened risks in the coming years. Wu Xinbo, director of the Center for American Studies at Shanghai’s Fudan University, stated, “There will be more turbulence, more conflict, more uncertainties, and even more risks in Sino-U.S. relations.”
Both presidential candidates had promised tougher stances on China, but Trump has raised the stakes further, proposing a staggering 60% tariff on all Chinese imports, potentially impacting $500 billion worth of exports, according to asset managers at PineBridge Investments.
The specter of Trump’s trade war looms large. During his first term, Trump imposed hefty tariffs on Chinese goods, accusing Beijing of unfair trade practices, including technology theft and currency manipulation. These actions took a toll on the Chinese economy, which is already grappling with its slowest growth in years. As a result, experts predict that economic and trade relations will bear the brunt of any renewed tensions between the two countries.
Oxford Economics’ Adam Slater forecasts that the proposed tariffs could reduce bilateral trade by up to 70%, costing both nations hundreds of billions in redirected trade. However, some analysts suggest that Trump’s approach may not be as harsh as it appears, as his “art of the deal” mentality often involves grand gestures followed by negotiation.
“Trump tends to say extreme things, but he is also open to negotiations,” said Hoo Tiang Boon, an associate professor at Nanyang Technological University. “He may not follow through on all these threats.”
Trump’s self-styled image as a dealmaker and his previously strong rapport with Chinese President Xi Jinping also give rise to speculation about the potential for a more personalized approach to diplomacy. Trump has made headlines for his admiration of autocratic leaders, even claiming that his tough tactics could convince Xi to avoid military action against Taiwan.
Yet, while Trump’s “America First” policies could undermine Western alliances, creating diplomatic openings for China, experts believe trade will remain the primary concern for Beijing. According to Wu, “The biggest concern remains the pressure from the trade side.”
