The Bridge: Europe's Indo-Pacific Podcast

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 [https://x.com/le2huong] 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 [https://bsky.app/profile/richheydarian.bsky.social] and Zsuzsa [https://bsky.app/profile/zsuzsettte.bsky.social] 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 [https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX] 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.

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 [https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX] 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

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 [https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX] 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.

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

This month, Zsuzsa [https://x.com/zsuzsettte] and Richard [https://x.com/RichHeydarian] are joined by Hunter Marston [https://bsky.app/profile/hmarston.bsky.social] 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 [https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX]

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

In this episode, Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy [https://x.com/zsuzsettte]and Richard Heydarian [https://x.com/RichHeydarian] are joined by Stefania Benaglia [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefania-benaglia-512ab68/?originalSubdomain=be] 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 [https://open.spotify.com/show/4qAI26gGryqxWtjq4WKbFX]