From the BBC World Service: President Biden is due to meet German Chancellor Olaf Scholz amid concerns over European access to natural gas from Russia. This happens as tens of thousands of Russian troops remain stationed along its border with Ukraine. Plus, leading figures behind the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine accuse politicians of damaging its reputation. And Canada’s capital, Ottawa, declares a state of emergency over ongoing trucker protests.
Also today: There’s more trade tension between the U.S. and China as the former is leaning on Beijing to honor commitments to purchase products from the U.S.
Also today: A winter storm is gripping much of the country, as are rising heating costs. Texas’ recent experience with harsh winter blackouts is still on the mind of many of its residents. The Beijing Olympics aren’t being expected to bring in lots of money.
From the BBC World Service: After all, China is the world’s biggest energy consumer. We examine the economic links between the two countries. Also, Beijing is being cautious about how much it supports Moscow, especially when it comes to the build-up of Russian troops at Russia’s border with Ukraine. And, scientists in South Africa say they’ve produced a version of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine.
Also today: We look into what’s keeping people from returning to the workforce in the midst of an epic labor shortage. Scientists in South Africa say they’ve produced a COVID-19 vaccine similar to the Moderna version, which could eventually mean vaccine access in a part of the world that’s struggled to get it.
Also today: The BBC’s Victoria Craig visits us to discuss some of the global confusion that comes with talk of raising interest rates. The tribal settlement with drugmakers over opioids is part of a long journey of tribal efforts to establish their legal power.
Trending up, however, are the sales of electric vehicles, which doubled in 2021. And, while the costs for companies have risen, so too – somehow – have profits. One reason? People just really want some of the stuff businesses are selling, like cars.
From the BBC World Service: The European Central Bank will announce its latest interest rate decision today. Despite record Eurozone inflation we hear why it is unlikely that rates will actually rise. And as Turkey’s inflation rate hits 48%, we hear what role tourism can play in tackling some of the country’s bigger economic problems.
The European Union set a goal of being climate neutral by 2050, but the criteria for what is “green” raises questions. With remote work becoming normalized, some developers plan on turning empty office buildings into apartments.
Also today: COVID-19 vaccines for children under the age of five could soon become available. Facebook parent company Meta reports its earnings this morning, and we take another look as business possibilities that could exist within the “metaverse.”
