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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[Confirmation Hearing] USTR Nominee Lighthizer Discusses India and Intellectual Property Rights
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[Confirmation Hearing] USTR Nominee Lighthizer Discusses President Trump's Business Interests in China
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President Trump's Calls with Japanese Prime Minister Abe and South Korean Acting President Hwang Kyo-Ahn
"President Donald J. Trump spoke separately today with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan and Acting President Hwang Kyo-Ahn of South Korea to discuss North Korea’s launch of ballistic missiles in clear violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions. President Trump emphasized the United States’ ironclad commitment to stand with Japan and South Korea in the face of the serious threat posed by North Korea. He emphasized that his Administration is taking steps to further enhance our ability to deter and defend against North Korea’s…
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Secretary Mattis' Call with Japanese Foreign Minister of Defense Inada
"Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis spoke this evening by telephone with Japan Minister of Defense Tomomi Inada to discuss North Korea's missile launches earlier today (March 6, Korea time). Secretary Mattis and Minister Inada both agreed that these launches are an unacceptable and irresponsible act that undermines security and stability in the region. Secretary Mattis reaffirmed that the United States remains steadfast in its defense commitments to Japan including its extended deterrence commitment. Both Secretary Mattis and Minister Inada agreed to cooperate closely along with…
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President Trump's Address to Joint Session of Congress - China
"[W]e’ve lost 60,000 factories since China joined the World Trade Organization in 2001."
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Secretary Mattis' Call with Korean Minister of National Defense Han Min-Koo
"Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis spoke with Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense Han Min-Koo today. Secretary Mattis said that the United States remains steadfast in its commitment to the defense of the ROK. He further emphasized that any attack on the United States or its allies will be defeated, and any use of nuclear weapons will be met with a response that is effective and overwhelming. Secretary Mattis and Minister Han discussed the current regional security environment, including North Korea's most recent…
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Secretary Tillerson's Meeting With State Councilor of the People's Republic of China (PRC) Yang Jiechi
"United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson met today with Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi and affirmed the importance of a constructive bilateral relationship and of regular high-level engagement between the United States and China. The Secretary and the State Councilor discussed the importance of improving and maintaining a mutually beneficial economic relationship between the two largest economies in the world. They also discussed areas of mutual concern, including North Korea’s nuclear programs. The State Councilor extended an invitation for the Secretary to visit Beijing…
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Secretary Tillerson's Meeting With State Councilor of the People's Republic of China (PRC) Yang Jiechi
"United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson met today with Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi and affirmed the importance of a constructive bilateral relationship and of regular high-level engagement between the United States and China. The Secretary and the State Councilor discussed the importance of improving and maintaining a mutually beneficial economic relationship between the two largest economies in the world. They also discussed areas of mutual concern, including North Korea’s nuclear programs. The State Councilor extended an invitation for the Secretary to visit Beijing…
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President Trump's Interview with Reuters - China and the South China Sea
"Many things took place that should not have been allowed. One of them is the building of a massive, you know, massive military complex in the middle of the South China Sea [by China]. And don't forget I've only been here for four weeks. This is something that took place and has been started three years ago and you were in a much better negotiating position three years ago. I am not happy about it."