The Bridge: Europe's Indo-Pacific Podcast

9DASHLINE
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From 9DASHLINE and the European Parliament in ASEAN, The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.  Join Zsuzsa and Richard as they examine key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union. Listen to our sister series: Musyawarah.

  1. Oct 20

    AI and the Global Power Shift: Where Do Europe and Asia Stand?

    As artificial intelligence reshapes global power, can Europe and ASEAN nations navigate an increasingly divided technological landscape? In this episode hosts Zsuzsa and Richard are joined by Dr Louise Marie Hurel, Senior Research Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), to explore how AI is transforming geopolitics, national security and international cooperation. From US–China technological rivalry and competing approaches to AI governance to cybersecurity, Big Tech and the growing influence of emerging economies, the discussion examines the challenges and opportunities facing Europe and its Indo-Pacific partners. Richard and Zsuzsa also discuss cultural diplomacy, exploring how historic artefacts, from the return of the Bayeux Tapestry to England to Southeast Asia's artistic treasures, can build bridges between nations. Join us for a conversation on technology, power and the future of international cooperation. Further reading - To explore some of the issues raised in this episode, Richard also highlights the following RUSI publications examining the security implications of emerging technologies, access to advanced AI systems and the protection of critical infrastructure: Developing a Framework for Secure Third-Party Access to Frontier AIGatekeeping the Frontier: When AI Access Becomes a National Security ConcernHigh-Risk ICT Vendors and Critical Infrastructure: European Approaches Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.

  2. Jun 24

    Energy Shocks and Strategic Choices: How Southeast Asia Is Navigating Turbulence in the Middle East

    In this episode, we speak with Dr. Huong Le Thu of the International Crisis Group about how Southeast Asia is both experiencing and responding to the conflict in the Middle East. We explore which aspects of the crisis have impacted the region most, alongside key policy priorities and potential blind spots. The discussion unpacks differing diplomatic responses and the role of domestic politics in shaping foreign policy. It also examines the region’s exposure to disruptions in energy supplies and global shipping routes, and whether governments see this as a short-term shock or a longer-term structural risk, including efforts to diversify supply chains and strengthen resilience. We also consider how the crisis is shaping views on US-China competition, strategic hedging, and Europe’s role, as well as what it reveals about ASEAN’s capacity to manage external shocks—and whether Southeast Asia is moving toward greater strategic autonomy or deeper dependence on external powers. Finally, Richard and Zsuzsa discuss Europe’s summer sporting season, from tennis to cycling, and Richard gives his view on the FIFA World Cup. Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.

  3. May 5

    The Art of the Deal: EU and ASEAN Trade and the Power of Cinema

    In this episode, we are joined by Bernd Lange MEP, Chair of the European Parliament's Committee on International Trade, for an in-depth conversation on the latest developments in EU trade negotiations with ASEAN partners — including Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. We explore what these talks mean for the future of Europe's geoeconomic engagement in the region and discuss the various issues on the road to agreement. And because diplomacy isn't only conducted in negotiating rooms, we also turn to the power of the big screen — examining how European and Southeast Asian cinema is emerging as a compelling soft power tool, with Richard revealing his top movie picks. Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.

  4. Jan 13

    Looking Ahead to 2026: What Will Shape EU–ASEAN Relations and the Indo-Pacific

    In this episode, we reflect on the year just past and look ahead to the key issues set to shape EU–ASEAN relations and broader developments across the Indo-Pacific in 2026. From geopolitical competition and economic security to regional diplomacy and strategic alignment, we explore many of the key issues set to define the year ahead. Richard and Zsuzsa are joined by David MacSweeney, founder of 9DASHLINE, who shares his top five areas to watch as leaders work to navigate an increasingly complex regional landscape. Best sure to check out our sister series: ⁠Musyawarah Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union.

    Looking Ahead to 2026: What Will Shape EU–ASEAN Relations and the Indo-Pacific

  5. 12/05/2025

    From Jakarta to Dili: ASEAN’s New Chapter and What it Means for Europe

    This month, Zsuzsa and Richard are joined by Hunter Marston to reflect on the latest developments in EU–ASEAN relations: the latest ASEAN summit, Timor-Leste’s entry as a full member, and how the recent conclusion of the EU–Indonesia CEPA is helping transform the region.Hunter examines what these shifts mean for ASEAN’s cohesion, Europe’s Indo-Pacific ambitions, and how major powers—including the US, China, India, and Japan—view a more active EU in Southeast Asia. The discussion also looks at the opportunities around Timor-Leste’s integration and how CEPA could redefine Europe’s economic strategy in the region. Zsuzsa and Richard wrap up with reflections on Europe’s strategic credibility and the cultural stories behind this new chapter in EU–ASEAN engagement. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union. Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah

  6. 09/17/2025

    The SCO Summit, India’s role, and EU–ASEAN connectivity

    In this episode, Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy and Richard Heydarian are joined by Stefania Benaglia a Brussels based independent consultant and advisor who specialises in EU–Asia relations and the Global Gateway. We look at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, and focus on India’s role and strategic positioning. We then turn to the evolving dynamics between the European Union and ASEAN, exploring the latest in interregional cooperation. Whether your interest lies in Asian geopolitics, connectivity or the shifting ties between Europe and Southeast Asia, this episode offers a fascinating and timely discussion. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union. Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah

  7. 07/14/2025

    James Crabtree on how events in the Middle East are (re)shaping Europe and Indo-Pacific relations

    This month, Zsuzsa and Richard are joined by James Crabtree, a distinguished visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations and a leading expert on European and Indo-Pacific strategy. Together, they examine how recent developments in the Middle East are (re)shaping Europe’s relationship with Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific region. They also explore how key Asian powers are responding to perceptions of Europe’s shifting role on the global stage. Plus, Richard reflects on his recent trip to Poland, offering insights into Eastern Europe's political climate and sharing his newfound love for Poland’s dynamic and diverse food scene. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union. Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah

  8. 05/23/2025

    Xi Jinping in Southeast Asia: Implications for Europe and the Indo-Pacific + Eurovision!

    This month, Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy and Richard Heydarian are joined by Stephen Nagy to examine the key takeaways from Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Southeast Asia. What does this renewed diplomatic engagement mean for the broader Indo-Pacific and Europe’s strategic outlook? The conversation explores shifting alliances, growing economic influence, and evolving geopolitical dynamics. Later, Richard and Zsuzsa turn their attention to Eurovision—Europe’s cultural showcase—and reflect on its global appeal, relevance, and why countries outside Europe take part in the always colourful celebration. Join hosts Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy and Richard Heydarian as they discuss key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions. Produced by 9DASHLINE and the European Parliament in ASEAN, The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia, and the wider Indo-Pacific. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union. Best sure to check out our sister series: Musyawarah.

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From 9DASHLINE and the European Parliament in ASEAN, The Bridge offers expert insight and analysis into the complex relationship between Europe, Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.  Join Zsuzsa and Richard as they examine key geopolitical issues, emerging trends, and the evolving dynamics shaping relations between these vital regions. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this series solely reflect the point of view of the hosts and can in no way be taken to reflect the position of the European Parliament or the European Union. Listen to our sister series: Musyawarah.

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