This resource tracked statements, developments, visits, and other interactions in US-Indo-Pacific relations under the President Trump administration. Special focus was given to the comments and activities of President Donald J. Trump; Vice President Mike Pence; United States Trade Representative Ambassador Robert E. Lighthizer; Secretary of State Mike Pompeo; Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, Jr.; former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson; former Secretary of Defense James Mattis; and former Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark Esper.
The Trump Administration & US - Indo-Pacific Relations
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Remarks by President Trump at the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea
"Through this entire visit, it has been both our pleasure and our honor to create and celebrate a long friendship between the United States and the Republic of Korea. This alliance between our nations was forged in the crucible of war, and strengthened by the trials of history. From the Inchon landings to Pork Chop Hill, American and South Korean soldiers have fought together, sacrificed together, and triumphed together. [...] Anyone who doubts the strength or determination of the United States should look to our…
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Remarks by President Trump and President Moon of the Republic of Korea at State Dinner
"We'd like to do much more business with South Korea, where South Korea is going to order a lot more. But the good news is, you will be ordering. I mean, we've already worked on that. And through our representatives, the amount of [military] equipment and things that you'll be ordering from the United States will be very substantially increased and therefore we'll be bringing the trade deficit way down, which is very important to our people. We have trade deficits with numerous countries, and…
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President Trump's Meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Abe
“President Trump and Prime Minister Abe reiterated their strong commitment to boost trilateral cooperation with the Republic of Korea in the face of the North Korean threat on anti-submarine warfare, ballistic missile defense, mine sweeping, and information sharing. The United States has already conducted joint exercises with Japan and the Republic of Korea in 2017. The two leaders announced new avenues for engagement to improve aviation and maritime interoperability and coordination. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe reaffirmed their commitment to the realignment of the…
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President Trump's Visit to Japan
“The United States and Japan reaffirmed their mutual commitment to promoting prosperity and development of the Indo-Pacific region by fostering a secure environment and developing high-standard rules. On November 7, 2017, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation will sign Memoranda of Understanding with Japanese partners to offer high-quality United States-Japan infrastructure investment alternatives in the Indo-Pacific region. The United States and Japan launched the Japan-United States Strategic Energy Partnership to promote universal access to affordable and reliable energy in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa…
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Remarks by President Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Abe
"The United States of America stands in solidarity with the people of Japan against the North Korean menace. History has proven over and over that strong and free nations will always prevail over tyrants who oppress their people. Our powerful and enduring U.S.-Japan alliance includes more than 50,000 members of the United States military stationed right here in Japan. In addition to that, we have 33,000 stationed in South Korea. American and Japanese military personnel train together, work together, and will stand together to defend…
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Remarks by President Trump to Servicemembers at Yokota Air Base
“For almost 60 years, the military alliance we see on this base has endured -- a cornerstone of sovereignty, security, and prosperity for our nations, this region, and indeed the entire world. Today, we pay tribute to that legacy -- a legacy you protect and grow each and every day. […] Here in Japan, we have seen the amazing things that are possible when a people are free and independent. Over the course of a single lifetime, the Japanese people have built one of the…
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President Trump's Interview with Laura Ingraham
"Well, you know Japan is a warrior nation. And I tell China and I tell everyone else that, listen, you’re going to have yourself a big problem with Japan pretty soon if you allow this to continue with North Korea. [...] Well, look, they’re an ally – they’re an ally. The Prime Minister is a very good friend of mine. Prime Minister Abe – I’ve become very close. I’ve become very, very, close to President Xi of China. I think a lot of good things…
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President Trump's Call with Indian Prime Minister Modi
"Today, President Donald J. Trump spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and accepted his condolences following the October 31 terrorist attack in New York City. Prime Minister Modi strongly condemned terrorism, and offered thoughts and prayers for the victims and their families. The two leaders resolved that India and the United States will continue to fight together against the global scourge of terrorism."
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President Trump's Call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe
"President Donald J. Trump spoke yesterday with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to discuss President Trump’s upcoming travel to Japan. Both leaders affirmed the importance of promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region and maintaining close coordination between the United States and Japan, and with the international community, to maximize pressure on North Korea."
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Secretary Mattis' Meetings with South Korean Officials
"On October 26, 2017, in separate meetings in Seoul, Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis met with Republic of Korea (ROK) President Moon Jae-in, ROK National Security Advisor Chung Eui-yong, and ROK Minister of Foreign Affairs Kang Kyung-Hwa ito discuss regional and global security issues, including the threat posed by North Korea. In each meeting, the leaders reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-ROK alliance, and noted the importance of a strong military to support the diplomatic efforts of the international community to achieve their shared goal…
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Secretary Mattis' Meeting with Indonesian Minister of Defense Ryamizard
"On October 25, Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis met with Indonesian Minister of Defense Ryamizard Ryacudu on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Clark, Pampanga, Republic of the Philippines. The two leaders exchanged views on regional security and emphasized the need for continued ASEAN centrality and cooperation to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific that safeguards the rules-based international order. The Secretary shared Minister Ryamizard’s concerns regarding violent extremism, particularly the threat posed by ISIS and other terrorist organizations. The two…
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Secretary Mattis' Trip to Thailand
"Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis visited Bangkok, Thailand on October 25-26 as President Trump's Special Envoy to the Royal Cremation of His Late Majesty, King Bhumipol Adulyadej. Secretary Mattis was deeply honored to lead the Presidential Delegation, and extended his profound condolences on behalf of the American people. He emphasized the United States will always remember King Bhumipol as a lifelong champion of the Thai people and of the U.S.-Thai Alliance. His many legacies, including 70 years of innovative work, diplomacy, and selfless service, will…