The Globalist Keir Starmer heads to Japan and the World Governments Summit kicks off in Dubai. Plus: the Grammy Awards
Feb 2, 2026
Anita Riotta, Monocle Radio producer in Paris who curates European headlines. Charles Hecker, RUSI associate fellow specialising in Russia and international business. They discuss Keir Starmer’s Tokyo visit and UK‑Japan ties. They examine stalled Russia‑Ukraine negotiation dynamics, business roles in talks, and shifting proposals. Conversation also touches on the World Governments Summit in Dubai and the Grammys highlights.
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Episode notes
Ukraine's Voice Often Excluded
- The Abu Dhabi-hosted discussions earlier focused on parameters for ending the war but excluded Ukraine from some economic conversations.
- Hecker notes Ukraine's perspectives remain insufficiently represented and Russian demands exceed Kyiv's red lines.
Symbolic Strengthening Of UK–Japan Ties
- Keir Starmer's short Tokyo visit was symbolic, emphasising a 'free and open Indo-Pacific' and closer UK–Japan ties.
- Fiona Wilson frames the meetings as soft-power diplomacy rather than major trade breakthroughs in a 20-minute bilateral.
Budget Vote Sparks Renewed Political Turmoil
- France's government used constitutional provision 49.3 to force its budget through, triggering fresh no-confidence motions and political turmoil.
- Anita Riotta says the move highlights persistent failure to find parliamentary compromise around the budget.
