This episode suggests the power of song with the prohibition of a Hong Kong protest anthem and China President Xi’s diplomatic dance in Europe. We also touch upon the economic challenges faced by Hong Kong and Japan in the post-pandemic era.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Song: Music can be a powerful tool for liberation and social change, as exemplified by the protest anthem "Glory to Hong Kong" and the South African national anthem "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika.". The intersection of art and politics can lead to controversy and debate, as seen in the Eurovision performance by an Israeli singer and the curtailment of the staging of Russian compositions due to the war in Ukraine.
• China’s Diplomatic Dance: Xi Jinping's European tour highlights the complexities of international diplomacy, with varying interpretations of Xi’s success and concerns raised by EU leaders.Xi struck a note with more autocratic leaders, notably Orban in Hungary, suggesting splits in Europe.
• Economic Challenges: in our headline review, Hong Kong and Japan are facing economic difficulties in the wake of the pandemic, with Hong Kong's solo travel scheme with eight Chinese cities and Japan's weak yen impacting consumer confidence at home despite an influx in visitors, checking Japanese airline stock gains..

Engage in thought about the balance between artistic expression and political considerations. Stay informed about diplomatic outreach by China in Europe and elsewhere, as well as post-pandemic economic developments in the Asia Pacific region and their potential global implications.

"The Asianist and the Global Beat" is a production of Asia Dialogue, bringing you insightful discussions on the evolving dynamics of the Asia Pacific region. Tune in for in-depth analyses, expert perspectives, and thought-provoking insights into the global significance of Asia. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join us on this journey of exploration and discovery.

Follow Stephen Noerper on X (Twitter) and other platforms.