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
All Posts
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President Trump's Call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe
"President Trump and Prime Minister Abe spoke on the phone today to discuss the importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues. President Trump affirmed the ironclad U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of Japan. The two leaders discussed the significance of Secretary of Defense Mattis's upcoming visit to the region, including Japan. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea. The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral…
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Vice President Pence’s Call with Australian Foreign Minister Bishop
"Vice President Mike Pence spoke with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop. Foreign Minister Bishop congratulated the Vice President on the inauguration. The Vice President thanked Foreign Minister Bishop for Australia’s steadfast partnership and contributions around the globe. The two reaffirmed the importance of continuing to strengthen the U.S.-Australia alliance to maintain peace and security in the region."
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Secretary Mattis' Call with Australian Minister for Defense Payne
"Secretary of Defense James Mattis spoke by phone today with Australian Minister for Defense Marise Payne to discuss the U.S.-Australia defense relationship. Secretary Mattis thanked Minister Payne for Australia's support to counter-ISIL operations in the Middle East, as well as for Australia's continued contributions in Afghanistan. Secretary Mattis was encouraged by progress with force posture initiatives, including the recent signing of a cost-sharing arrangement. Secretary Mattis looks forward to discussing this and other issues in more detail when they meet."
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Secretary Mattis' Call with New Zealand Minister for Defense Brownlee
"Secretary of Defense James Mattis spoke by phone today with New Zealand's Minister for Defense Gerry Brownlee to discuss the U.S.-New Zealand defense relationship. Secretary Mattis thanked Minister Brownlee for New Zealand's support on various areas of mutual interest. Secretary Mattis was pleased to see the historic visit by the U.S Navy destroyer USS Sampson to New Zealand last November, and grateful that the ship was able to aid in the response to the Kaikoura earthquake. Secretary Mattis looks forward to working with Minister Brownlee…
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President Trump's Call with Indian Prime Minister Modi
"During a call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, President Trump emphasized that the United States considers India a true friend and partner in addressing challenges around the world. The two discussed opportunities to strengthen the partnership between the United States and India in broad areas such as the economy and defense. They also discussed security in the region of South and Central Asia. President Trump and Prime Minister Modi resolved that the United States and India stand shoulder to shoulder in the global…
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White House Conference with Business Leaders - China
"If you want to take a plant or you want to do something, you want to sell something into China and other countries, it's very, very hard. In some cases, it's impossible. They won't even take your product."