This week we are pleased to introduce our brand new issue of China Trends. As 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between China and Japan, we take this opportunity to dive into how China considers Japan’s foreign and security policy developments. Over to South America, where agriculture giant Brazil nervously eyes Ukraine. The second installment of our Beyond the West series focuses on Brazil’s notable neutrality after the Russian invasion. It all boils down to a crucial Russian-exported commodity: fertilizers. Onto financial news, where we consider why long-term private investment offers advantages over short-term strategies. Finally, as Ukraine moves a step closer to EU membership, and in light of Macron, Scholz and Draghi’s train bound visit to Kyiv, we end with a refresher on the EU enlargement process.