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
Text
U.S. Secretaries of Defense and State, Indian Ministers of Defense and External Affairs Provide Remarks at the Beginning of the U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue
"SECRETARY MIKE POMPEO: Thank you very much. It’s an honor to be here with you (inaudible) for the third 2+2 (inaudible) all three. Our friendship and commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific was clearly, clearly highly on display when we were in Tokyo this past week and a half for the Quad meeting that Minister Jaishankar and I had with our Australian and Japanese friends earlier this month.
Today is real opportunity for two great democracies like ours to grow closer, as I said…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Rahul Shivshankar of Times Now
"QUESTION: Secretary Pompeo, welcome to Times Now. Welcome to India. You have just had a very intensive 36 hours roughly. You signed certain foundation agreements that takes the relationship to a completely different level. We’ve even mentioned the destabilizing actions of China. Has the United States therefore decided to offer India more than just diplomatic assistance in the event of a conflict, let’s assume, with China or Pakistan?
SECRETARY POMPEO: Well, thanks for having me with you today. We did sign a series of important…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Indian Prime Minister Modi
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, jointly with Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper, met today with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, India. Secretary Pompeo and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the warm and close relationship between our countries, which is rooted in our vibrant democratic traditions and fostered by strong ties between our citizens. Secretary Pompeo and Prime Minister Modi discussed several issues of regional and global concern on which the United States and India collaborate, including COVID-19 response, security and defense…
Text
Joint Statement on the Third U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue
"India’s Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh and Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar welcomed U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper to New Delhi for the third annual U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue. The Ministers welcomed the elevation of the U.S.-India relationship to a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership during the visit of President Donald J. Trump to India in February 2020. They reiterated their commitment to further strengthening the U.S.-India partnership, anchored in mutual trust and friendship…
Text
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and Indian Minister of Defense Rajnath Singh Joint Press Availability at the U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue
"SECRETARY ESPER: Minister Singh, Minister Jaishankar, Secretary Pompeo, it is great to be here in New Delhi and for the four of us to meet and to discuss the important issues of the day and indeed the important issues of the future.
As the world confronts a global pandemic and growing security challenges, the United States-India partnership is more important than ever to ensure security, stability, and prosperity of the region and the world.
Fifteen years after the conclusion of the first U.S.-India Defense Framework…
Text
USTR and USDA Release Report on Agricultural Trade between the United States and China
"Washington, DC – The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today issued a report highlighting the progress made to date in implementing the agricultural provisions in the U.S.-China Phase One Economic and Trade Agreement, which is delivering historic results for American agriculture.
Since the Agreement entered into force, the United States and China have addressed a multitude of structural barriers in China that had been impeding exports of U.S. food and agricultural products. To date, China has…
Text
Readout of Secretary Esper's Bilateral Engagement With India Minister of Defense Rajnath Singh
"Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper met today with Indian Minister of Defense Rajnath Singh ahead of the U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi, India. Secretary Esper and Minister Singh applauded the strength of the defense relationship between the United States and India, and reinforced their commitment to deepening military-to-military cooperation, including joint-service cooperation; increasing secure communications capabilities; and enhancing mutual logistics engagements. Secretary Esper and Minister Singh commended the conclusion of the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement during the visit, and welcomed the…
Text
On the Loss of Life Due to Significant Flooding in Central Vietnam
"The Government of the United States expresses its deepest condolences to the Government and people of Vietnam as they mourn those who perished due to significant flooding in the central region of Vietnam as a result of Tropical Storm Linfa. The U.S. government stands ready to assist Vietnam in addressing the damage caused by the floods, and we send our deepest sympathies to all affected by this tragedy, including the many thousands who were displaced."
Text
Joint Press Statement of the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
"We are grateful to all who have participated in today’s conference, including those who announced or pledged funding for the international humanitarian response, those who are supporting members of the Rohingya communities in other ways — not least by hosting them — and most importantly, representatives of Rohingya communities themselves.
The situation in the region remains an acute humanitarian and human rights crisis more than three years after the August 2017 violence, which caused hundreds of thousands of Rohingya people to flee their homes…
Text
U.S. Announces Humanitarian Assistance at the International Conference on Sustaining Support for the Rohingya Refugee Response
"Today, the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) conducted a virtual conference on Sustaining International Support for the Rohingya Refugee Response. The United States announced nearly $200 million in additional humanitarian assistance provided in Fiscal Year 2020 for Rohingya refugees, host communities in Bangladesh and other countries in the region, and internally displaced Rohingya and other crisis-affected communities in Burma, including those who fled ethnic cleansing in Rakhine State.
The United States remains the most generous financial…
Text
Secretary Pompeo at a Press Availability - Indo-Pacific
"Look, today I want to talk about a number of multilateral initiatives that we’re advancing here at the State Department. We’re cooperating with our partners and allies and friends across the world in unprecedented ways. It’s been a hallmark of the administration that frankly deserves more attention.
Look, it starts with working to go out and meet with these people. This Sunday I’ll depart for India, for Sri Lanka, for the Maldives, and then on to Indonesia. On every stop I will discuss a broad…
Text
Remarks by Secretary Ross at the 2020 Meeting of the President’s Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons Virtual Meeting - China
"My thanks to the Advisory Councils and all of our federal agencies for your hard work and contributions to ending modern slavery. My Department stands together with you in full support of this important effort. And we are deploying our authorities and resources to rid our supply chains around the globe of these anathemas.
Notably, the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry Security (BIS) has imposed export controls on entities demonstrating consistent abuses to human rights or whose surveillance technologies are enabling such activities. Since October…
Text
On the Passing of Former Marshallese President Litokwa Tomeing
"On behalf of the Government of the United States, I want to convey my deepest condolences to the family of former President Litokwa Tomeing and to the people of the Marshall Islands on his passing.
President Tomeing was a seminal figure in the founding institutions of his nation, including his role in the Marshall Islands Constitutional Convention. The Republic of the Marshall Islands was blessed by his vibrant political career in local and national governments. Perhaps one of his greatest legacies is the part he…
Text
The United States Imposes Sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong Persons for Activities Related to Supporting the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines
"The international community has long recognized that the Iranian regime uses the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) to transport proliferation-sensitive items intended for Iran’s ballistic missile and military programs. A provision of UN Security Council Resolution 1929 mandates vigilance when doing business with IRISL and entities owned or controlled by IRISL under certain circumstances. This provision is now in effect due to the snapback of UN sanctions.
Today, the United States is sanctioning six entities and two individuals for conduct related to IRISL…
Text
Meeting of the President’s Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons - China
"Finally, the Department will continue to strongly condemn the Chinese Communist Party’s egregious practice of forced labor, among other human rights abuses, as part of its campaign of repression against Uyghurs and members of other ethnic and religious minority groups in the Xinjiang, and throughout China. In response, the United States has leveled visa restrictions on PRC government and Chinese Communist Party officials believed to be responsible for such horrific human rights abuses, built coalitions through platforms like the United Nations General Assembly, and issued…
Text
Joint Statement Regarding Secretary Esper's Meeting With Indonesian Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto
"Today, Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper met with Indonesian Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto at the Pentagon to discuss regional security, bilateral defense priorities, and defense acquisitions. Secretary Esper communicated the importance of upholding human rights, the rule of law, and professionalization as the two countries expand their engagement. Minister Subianto expressed the importance of military engagement at all levels, and communicated his appreciation for the United States' support for Indonesia’s defense modernization. Both leaders shared their desire to enhance bilateral military-to-military activities…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Erick Erickson of The Erick Erickson Show on WSB Atlanta - China
"QUESTION: I’m great. I’m glad you could stop by this morning, because I was thinking every conversation I’ve had with the President or Vice President the last couple of months has involved conversations on China. And now with Apple rolling out its new iPhone next week in 5G, it just seems like we’re seeing American tech companies and even institutions in this country, like through Confucius Institutes, more and more entangled with China, and would love to pick your brain on that topic.
SECRETARY POMPEO…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Jayme West and Jim Sharpe of Arizona Morning News on KTAR Phoenix - China
"QUESTION: We are joined by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Arizona’s morning news, and speaking of the President, we have heard him talk a lot about how China is going to pay for unleashing this virus. Any idea how he is going to make China pay and when that would happen?
SECRETARY POMPEO: Absolutely. I don’t want to get out in front of decisions he’s going to make, but I would argue that the Chinese Communist Party is already paying dearly for it. You…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Bud Hedinger of Good Morning Orlando on WFLA Orlando - China
"QUESTION: Live with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. We only have a couple of minutes together. I’m glad you brought it up here, because I know you wanted to come on and sound the alarm about the danger of China’s Confucius Institutes set up on American college campuses, allegedly to teach Chinese language and culture. But you see a dark side to this, don’t you, sir?
SECRETARY POMPEO: Bud, the cover story is that they’re coming here for cultural goodwill and to teach Mandarin. The…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Paul W. Smith of The Paul W. Smith Show on WJR Detroit - China
"QUESTION: You’re in the heart of the automotive industry, and a lot of things have been done in China, and have been – we’ve depended on China for buying a lot of our product over the last several years. What about travel to China?
SECRETARY POMPEO: So the Chinese Communist Party presents a very unique challenge for the United States of America. This is a nation that under the leadership of General Secretary Xi Jinping desires frankly to destroy our way of life, the very…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Tony Katz of The Morning News on WIBC Indianapolis - China
"QUESTION: Tony Katz. So great to be with you. We have talked often about China’s influence in the United States and how China tries to work (inaudible) on college campuses, where you’re not able to speak out against China. One of the ways they do this is with Confucius Institutes. We’ve had these conversations with Congressman Jim Banks of the Indiana Third. Before, we’ve seen Confucius Institutes removed from college campuses. Chuck Grassley, senator from Iowa, referring to Confucius Institutes as fronts for Chinese propaganda.
…
Text
On the Passing of Former Palau President Kuniwo Nakamura
"On behalf of the Government of the United States, I want to convey my deepest condolences to the family of former President Kuniwo Nakamura and the people of Palau on his passing. President Nakamura was a great statesman who guided Palau’s independence and fostered the emergence of our close and enduring relationship of free association.
Together, our two countries honor his memory and legacy through our commitment to shared values. As President Nakamura told the UN General Assembly, Palau is “large in things that count”…
Text
Joint Communique of the 52nd U.S.-Republic of Korea Security Consultative Meeting
"1. The 52nd United States (U.S.)-Republic of Korea (ROK) Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) was held in Washington, D.C., on October 14, 2020. U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and ROK Minister of National Defense Suh Wook led their respective delegations, which included senior defense and foreign affairs officials. On October 13, 2020, U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley, and ROK Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Won In-choul, presided over the 45th U.S.-ROK Military Committee Meeting (MCM).
2…
Text
Secretary Pompeo at a Press Availability - Indo-Pacific
Today I’m also pleased to announce that Assistant Secretary Robert Destro – right here; good to see you – that Assistant Secretary Robert Destro of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor will also serve simultaneously as the U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues.
He will focus on advancing dialogue between the communist-run government in Beijing and the Dalai Lama; protecting the distinct religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; improving respect for their human rights; and much, much more.
Of course, yesterday China…
Text
Designation of a United States Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues
"I am pleased to announce the concurrent designation of Assistant Secretary Robert A. Destro of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor to serve as the United States Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues.
Consistent with the Tibetan Policy Act, Special Coordinator Destro will lead U.S. efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Dalai Lama or his representatives; protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and press for their human rights to be respected. He also…
Text
Secretary Pompeo's at that Institute Republican Institute (IRI)'s Virtual Dinner
"We also see it in 12 courageous Hong Kongers who, on August 23rd, climbed into a speedboat and attempted their escape to freedom.
Their destination was democratic Taiwan, 400 miles away. They reportedly only made in 26 miles outside of Hong Kong’s territorial waters, before security services from Communist China scooped them up.
The Hong Kong 12 are being held incommunicado by CCP authorities on the mainland as we speak. They’ve been denied counsel.
But the Hong Kong 12 have committed no crime. They simply…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Larry O’Connor of the Larry O’Connor Show - China
"QUESTION: Boy, there’s a lot going on in the news, and I know that you have been a busy man. I guess Secretary of State means you’re going to be traveling the world. But you’ve been very busy in the last week specifically with a trip to Japan, and that, of course, continues your focus on the Chinese Communist Party. Talk to me about what happened in Japan and where we stand right now with the Communist Party of China.
SECRETARY POMPEO: So it was…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Hugh Hewitt of the Hugh Hewitt Show - China and Taiwan
"QUESTION: Now, at the same time that the U.S. is leading internationally and nationally the anti-virus response, the image of China, according to Pew Research, has plummeted. A new 14-country Pew Research Center survey shows that a majority in each of the surveyed countries has an unfavorable opinion of China. Do you believe, Mr. Secretary, that the world has the number of the Chinese Communist Party? They were responsible for this nightmare. They hid it. They covered it up. They still cover it up.
SECRETARY…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Greg Kelly of Greg Kelly Reports on Newsmax TV - China
"QUESTION: You bet. Listen, I’ve got some good news and bad news. We’ll start with the bad news. A major media organization has called you the worst secretary of state ever. But the good news is that’s coming from the China state-affiliated media. (Laughter.) Which I think is possibly the greatest endorsement a U.S. secretary of state could get. Were you aware of that report?
SECRETARY POMPEO: I’ve seen what the Chinese media has said about me. It’s state media, it’s directed by General Xi…
Text
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo With Guy Benson of The Guy Benson Show - China
"QUESTION: Shifting to China now, I saw a series of polls just in the last few days from Pew Research globally that showed huge spikes in negative views of the Chinese Government, the Chinese Communist Party, all around the advanced world. It’s not just Americans. Across the political spectrum. It’s Canadians. It’s Brits. It’s Australians. It’s Indians. It’s a whole host of people from across the world – Japanese as well.
I know that you’ve recently been in Japan. You’ve recently traveled to Europe. You’ve…
Text
President Trump's Interview with Rush Limbaugh Interview - China
"Rush Limbaugh: (01:31:32)By the way, what’s the status of the stimulus package now, the COVID stimulus plan?
Donald Trump: (01:31:36)So I’d like to see it happen because it wasn’t … Look, a lot of people are being hurt because of China. It wasn’t these people’s fault. I would like to see it bigger, because maybe it helps or maybe it hurts negotiations. I would like to see a bigger package. I’d like to see money going to people. It was not their fault…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Dana Perino of The Daily Briefing on Fox News - China
"QUESTION: All right. I wanted to ask you about China because there was a light touch of that topic at the vice presidential debate this past week, and I feel like the American people maybe deserve a little bit more on that topic since it is one I know that takes up a lot of your time. I know you recently met with the Quad – that’s a group that started in 2007 of our allies – to try to address how we are going…
Text
Fiji National Day
"On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I offer my congratulations to the people of Fiji as you mark fifty years of independence.
Much has changed in the world since 1970, but our friendship remains steadfast. Fijians and Americans value the role that fundamental freedoms play in fostering happiness and prosperity for our two nations. Together, we aspire to a more secure Indo-Pacific, and we are addressing the challenges of today to secure a promising future for our children…
Text
Readout of U.S. Secretary Esper's Phone Call With Republic of Korea Minister of National Defense Suh Wook
"Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper spoke today with Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense Suh Wook and the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a steadfast ROK-U.S. Alliance and to the combined defense posture.
During the call, Secretary Esper congratulated Minister Suh on his new position and noted that he looked forward to hosting Minister Suh at the Pentagon for the 52nd Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) later this month. Minister Suh expressed his appreciation for Secretary Esper’s hospitality and committed to proactively…
Text
Secretary Pompeo with Yoshio Arima of NHK - Indo-Pacific
"QUESTION: But during this very serious moment, you are visiting Japan, far away from White House. So why is that important? What is such important issues you have to talk with allies here in Tokyo?
SECRETARY POMPEO: So there were two reasons I needed to be here today. The first is I wanted to extend my congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Suga, talk to him about the important bilateral relationship between our countries. We have a long, warm, historic relationship between the people of…
Text
Readout of Secretary Esper's Phone Call With Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi
"On October 6, Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper spoke with Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi by phone to congratulate Minister Kishi on his appointment as Minister of Defense. Secretary Esper and Minister Kishi advanced ongoing discussions on the response to COVID-19, security issues in the Indo-Pacific region, and continued cooperation to implement U.S. forces realignment initiatives."
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar on the margins of the United States-India-Australia-Japan Quadrilateral Consultations. Secretary Pompeo and Minister Jaishankar discussed ongoing bilateral and multilateral cooperation on topics of international concern. They reaffirmed the strength of the United States-India relationship, reviewed our efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, and asserted the need to work together to advance peace, prosperity, and security in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe. The Secretary and the Minister agreed…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Quad Meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi, Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar, and Australian Foreign Minister Payne
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, and Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne to reaffirm collective Quad efforts to advance a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. In regard to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, the participants discussed ways to deepen cooperation to create resilient supply chains, promote transparency, counter disinformation, and advance shared efforts to support a post-pandemic recovery.
The participants also reviewed recent strategic developments across the Indo-Pacific and…
Text
Secretary Pompeo Opening Remarks at Quad Ministerial
"SECRETARY POMPEO: Great, thank you. Good evening, everyone. Foreign Minister Motegi, thank you so much for hosting us, the second meeting of the Quad foreign ministers. I personally appreciate your hospitality. I know my whole team does.
Foreign Minister Payne, Foreign Minister Jaishankar, it’s great to be with you all again. So glad we could all meet here in Tokyo so soon after the new Suga administration has taken office. I’m confident that we can build on the good work of former Prime Minister Abe…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Call with Mongolia’s President Battulga
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with Mongolia’s President Khaltmaagiin Battulga. Secretary Pompeo and President Battulga discussed the strategic partnership between the United States and Mongolia, which is based on shared democratic values, a commitment to economic development, and deep people-to-people ties. The two also discussed working together to strengthen security in Asia, promote the rule of law, and support the traditional heritage and culture of all Mongolians, as well as the possibility of rescheduling the Secretary’s visit to Ulaanbaatar in the near…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Payne
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met with Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne today in Tokyo, Japan on the sidelines of the U.S.-Australia-India-Japan Ministerial (“the Quad”). Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Payne emphasized the importance of the Quad discussions to the promotion of peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. The Secretary and the Foreign Minister also discussed their shared concerns regarding the People’s Republic of China’s malign activity in the region. Secretary Pompeo thanked Foreign Minister Payne for Australia’s leadership and coordination as a…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Suga
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga today in Tokyo, Japan. The Secretary and the Prime Minister reaffirmed that the U.S.-Japan Alliance is the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity for the Indo-Pacific region. Secretary Pompeo and Prime Minister Suga also highlighted that our Alliance is built on a common foundation of a long –standing commitment to democracy, human rights, economic development, security, and people-to-people ties."
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi today in Tokyo, Japan. Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Motegi highlighted the U.S.-Japan Alliance as the cornerstone of the prosperity and security enjoyed by the American and Japanese people. The Secretary and the Foreign Minister also stressed that the Alliance is essential to the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, including joint efforts such as the Japan-U.S. Energy Partnership, Japan-U.S. Strategic Digital Economy Partnership, and Japan-U.S.-Mekong Power Partnership."
…
Text
Secretary Pompeo's Remarks at the Florida Family Policy Council Dinner Gala - China
"Just this past week – I mentioned – I was in Rome meeting with senior Vatican officials. I urged the Church to be a bold moral witness in defense of religious freedom, especially regarding China and the Chinese Communist Party’s staggering abuses.
I’m sure some of you have seen the list, but the reporters don’t like to talk about this much today:
One million or more Uyghurs and other Muslims are held in internment camps that rival the worst abuses that happened a century ago…
Text
Secretary Pompeo with Hrvoje Kresic of N1 TV - China
"QUESTION: But it seems that a gap has appeared. Fifty miles from here there’s the Peljesac Bridge being built by Chinese companies. It’s hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of (inaudible) and it’s being built by Chinese companies, not by U.S. companies. How do you explain that?
SECRETARY POMPEO: Yeah. Well, that’s a sovereign decision that was made here. Our view has been pretty consistent with respect to how we should treat the Chinese Communist Party all across the world. When they show up, when…
Text
USTR Initiates Vietnam Section 301 Investigation
At the direction of President Donald J. Trump, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is initiating an investigation addressing two significant issues with respect to Vietnam. USTR will investigate Vietnam’s acts, policies, and practices related to the import and use of timber that is illegally harvested or traded, and will investigate Vietnam’s acts, policies, and practices that may contribute to the undervaluation of its currency and the resultant harm caused to U.S. commerce. USTR will conduct the investigation under Section 301 of the…
Text
Secretary Pompeo Briefing with the Traveling Press - China
"QUESTION: Well, so you’ve talked about sharing the values – getting them to lean into the West, et cetera – but it sounded like the prime minister of Croatia was talking a lot about China. He wasn’t exactly rejecting China. So how did you feel that that message is getting through to him? He mentioned that both Greece and Croatia were part of the China Plus.
SECRETARY POMPEO: Just go look at what the European countries are saying today compared to what they were saying…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Amy Kellogg of FOX News - China
"QUESTION: But let me ask you how it went. You’re fresh from the Vatican. How did it go this morning with the cardinals? What progress did you make?
SECRETARY POMPEO: Look, we had a constructive discussion. We have a shared objective. The Chinese Communist Party is behaving in ways that are reminiscent of what’s only happened in centuries past in terms of human rights violations. We’ve watched them oppress not only Muslim Uyghurs but Christians, Catholics, Falun Gong, people of all faiths. I know that…
Text
Secretary Pompeo's Remarks at the Holy See Symposium on Advancing and Defending Religious Freedom Through Diplomacy
"[...] Nowhere, however – nowhere is religious freedom under assault more than it is inside of China today. That’s because, as with all communist regimes, the Chinese Communist Party deems itself the ultimate moral authority.
An increasingly repressive CCP, frightened by its own lack of democratic legitimacy, works day and night to snuff out the lamp of freedom, especially religious freedom, on a horrifying scale.
I spoke on this topic last year for a bit, and I paid special attention last year to the Uyghur…
Text
Secretary Pompeo and Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio at a Press Availability - China
"[SECRETARY POMPEO:] Recovering from the virus should also mean accountability for the Chinese Communist Party, as I urged today, and its blatant cover-up attempts that have led to the deaths of more than 1 million people, and an enormous loss – trillions of dollars of economic wealth – and the terrible situation it’s put ordinary families all across the world.
To that end, the foreign minister and I had a long conversation about the United States concerns that the Chinese Communist Party is trying to…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Japanese National Security Secretariat Secretary General Shigeru Kitamura
"Today, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met with the Japanese National Security Secretariat Secretary General Shigeru Kitamura in Washington, D.C. Secretary Pompeo congratulated Secretary General Kitamura on his re-appointment as Secretary General following Prime Minister Suga’s election on September 16. Secretary Pompeo and Secretary General Kitamura reaffirmed that the U.S.-Japan Alliance is the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in a free and open Indo-Pacific."
Text
Secretary Pompeo's Remarks on China During a Meeting with State Legislatures in Wisconsin
"As Americans across the country were dealing with the pandemic that was released from Wuhan, they’ve been worried about their lives, their livelihoods. Senator Roth got an email from Wu Ting, a person who was in the consul at China’s consulate in Chicago – it landed in his email inbox.
Ms. Wu stated that she was “responsible for China-Wisconsin relations.”
The email included a draft resolution that she asked the Senator to pass – in this chamber – praising China’s response to the coronavirus.
I…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Larry O’Connor of the Larry O’Connor Show/WMAL - China
"QUESTION: Can you expand on that? I just played a little audio of your remarks yesterday, and you said that the Chinese Communist Party and its proxies aims to make Americans receptive to Beijing’s form of authoritarianism. Can you expand on that?
SECRETARY POMPEO: So this is precisely the risk the President has identified when we talk about disinformation and Chinese influence here, Chinese Communist Party influence here in the United States. We saw a glaring example when it came to the Wuhan virus, right…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Tony Perkins of Value Voters Summit - China
"QUESTION: I want to wrap up our time together by returning to the issue of China. Recently you had made the comment that the world has awakened to the threat Beijing poses to international security and the global economy. When we see what’s happened with the coronavirus, when we see the fact that they’re working even into the – not in only Latin America, but even here in the United States, to undermine America’s republic.
SECRETARY POMPEO: I’ll give you an example. Tomorrow I’m going…
Text
Palau Independence Day
"On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I congratulate the government and the citizens of Palau as you mark your 26th Independence Day.
The close friendship between our two countries remains firmly rooted in a foundation of respect for democratic principles, human rights, and the underlying fundamental freedoms to which all are entitled. While October 1st marks the beginning of Palau’s 26th year of independence, the ties between our two countries have a much deeper shared history.
The bond…
Text
Remarks by President Trump to the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly - China
"As we pursue this bright future, we must hold accountable the nation which unleashed this plague onto the world: China.
In the earliest days of the virus, China locked down travel domestically while allowing flights to leave China and infect the world. China condemned my travel ban on their country, even as they cancelled domestic flights and locked citizens in their homes.
The Chinese government and the World Health Organization — which is virtually controlled by China — falsely declared that there was no evidence…
Text
Secretary Pompeo's Remarks on Religious Faith
"Today, sadly, millions and millions of people still live under regimes that want to banish faith from the public square, or any of notion of God from basic civic life.
Today, perhaps the most egregious example is the Chinese Communist Party. Today in the western part of China, a place that none of us might know, a place called Xinjiang, more than a million Chinese have been forced into internment camps, being surveilled 24/7, forced sterilizations, forced abortions, today, in the world in which we…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Maria Bartiromo of Fox News Sunday Morning Futures - China
QUESTION: Yeah. I mean, where is Europe in this? Similar situation as it relates to China. You’ve got 30 countries pushing back on Huawei and we’re still waiting on any resolution in Europe. Same with Iran. Can you talk about that a bit and just give me the practical changes that we’ll see as a result of this snapback in sanctions on Iran?
SECRETARY POMPEO: So the second question as a practical thing, there’ll be a whole lot more things that would have taken place…
Text
Secretary Ross' Statement on Delayed Prohibitions Related to TikTok
"In light of recent positive developments, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, at the direction of President Trump, will delay the prohibition of identified transactions pursuant to Executive Order 13942, related to the TikTok mobile application that would have been effective on Sunday, September 20, 2020, until September 27, 2020 at 11:59 p.m."
Text
Commerce Department Prohibits WeChat and TikTok Transactions to Protect the National Security of the United States
"In response to President Trump’s Executive Orders signed August 6, 2020, the Department of Commerce (Commerce) today announced prohibitions on transactions relating to mobile applications (apps) WeChat and TikTok to safeguard the national security of the United States. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has demonstrated the means and motives to use these apps to threaten the national security, foreign policy, and the economy of the U.S. Today’s announced prohibitions, when combined, protect users in the U.S. by eliminating access to these applications and significantly reducing…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Leeron Brummel of National Communications Network - China
"QUESTION: Ah, 400 (inaudible). Interesting. Part of that, as you said, is helping the interests of the U.S. Government and the Guyana Government in terms of what opportunities we have looking at Guyana’s emerging energy sector as well. Have discussions been held with the private sector agencies or stakeholders, and how are we looking – how do we intend to have a discussion on accessing markets?
SECRETARY POMPEO: Yeah. So I talk to American private sector leaders all the time. I consider it part of…
Text
Nepali Constitution Day
"On behalf of the American people and the United States Government, I extend best wishes to the people of Nepal as you celebrate your Constitution Day on September 19.
For over seven decades, the United States and Nepal have enjoyed friendship and close ties between our peoples, and we are committed to supporting Nepal’s path toward a stable, prosperous, and sovereign future. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Nepal and working together on economic recovery, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development, even as we…
Text
Secretary Pompeo And Suriname President Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi At a Press Availability - China
"QUESTION: That’s a good idea. Mr. President, thank you. I wanted to ask you if you think that there is a competition between the United States and China here in Suriname and more broadly in the region. Did Secretary Pompeo make a convincing case to choose American companies as you go forward with your economic development, and do you feel that there is a choice that you have to make between the two countries, the United States and China? Thanks very much.
SECRETARY POMPEO: Mr…
Text
Secretary Pompeo and UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab at a Press Availability - China
"We also discussed the challenges presented to the world by the Chinese Communist Party, and the challenges that that same party presents to the people of China.
We’re all overcoming the virus that the CCP allowed out of Wuhan. But while we’re all recovering, the party’s aggression abroad and abuses at home have gotten even worse.
We appreciate the steps that the British Government has taken to face the China challenge in recent months. That includes remarkable work speaking up for the people of Hong…
Text
On Yoshihide Suga’s Election as Prime Minister of Japan
"I congratulate Yoshihide Suga on his election by the Diet as the next Prime Minister of Japan. The U.S.-Japan Alliance is the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in a free and open Indo-Pacific and is central to upholding a rules-based international order. The United States looks forward to working with Prime Minister Suga in promoting the Alliance as a force for transparency, accountability, openness, prosperity, and peace in the Indo-Pacific and around the world. Congratulations, as well, to Toshimitsu Motegi on continuing in his…
Text
Secretary Esper's Speech at RAND - China
"Today, in this era of great power competition, the Department of Defense has prioritized China then Russia, as our top strategic competitors. These revisionist powers are using predatory economics, political subversion, and military force in an attempt to shift the balance of power in their favor, and often at the expense of others.
China for example is exerting its malign influence through its “One-Belt, One-Road” Initiative. This campaign has left weaker nations with crushing debt, forcing them to take their economic relief at the expense…
Text
President Trump's Remarks at September 16, 2020 Press Briefing - China
"Q Thank you, Mr. President. Are you prepared to sign off on the Oracle and TikTok deal, even though the Treasury isn’t getting paid? And also, does the deal meet your requirements in terms of national security concerns?
THE PRESIDENT: Okay, they’re giving me studies on the deal. It has to be 100 percent as far as national security is concerned. And, no, I’m not prepared to sign off on anything. I have to see the deal.
We need security, especially after what we’ve seen…
Video
Secretary Pompeo's Remarks at the Atlantic Council's "Atlantic Council Front Page" Event - China
Text
Papua New Guinea Independence Day
"On behalf of the United States Government and the American people, I extend congratulations to the people of Papua New Guinea as you raise your flag at Independence Hill on the 45th anniversary of your independence.
This is a day to celebrate your rich history, and I am proud to greet you on this important occasion in recognition of our close partnership, mutual respect, and common values. Even as both our nations confront COVID-19 in this region and worldwide, I look forward to deepening our…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Lea Salame of France Inter - China
"QUESTION: You started a tough policy – you started a tough policy on China. You banned imports of cotton from Xinjiang where Uyghur people are put in camps. Could you take further steps? And are you expecting similar moves from Europeans?
SECRETARY POMPEO: We hope every nation in the world will come to recognize what is the – perhaps the greatest stain on human rights of this century, what’s taking place in Western China. And so the United States has always stood for human rights.
…
Text
Ambassador Lighthizer's Remarks on WTO Panel Ruling Concerning US Actions Against China
"Washington, DC – U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer today criticized a World Trade Organization (WTO) panel report that stated that actions taken by the U.S. to combat China’s widespread and damaging theft of American technology and intellectual property were inconsistent with WTO rules.
“This panel report confirms what the Trump Administration has been saying for four years: The WTO is completely inadequate to stop China’s harmful technology practices,” said Ambassador Lighthizer. “Although the panel did not dispute the extensive evidence submitted by the…
Text
The United States Sanctions Chinese State-Owned Entity for its Role in Corruption in Cambodia
"China is the world’s largest emitter of environmental pollution including of greenhouse gases and the exploitation of natural resources around the globe. Today, the United States again took action by imposing sanctions on the People’s Republic of China (PRC) state-owned Union Development Group, Ltd. (UDG) under Executive Order (E.O.) 13818, which builds upon and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, for its role in corrupt activities in Cambodia.
Today’s action demonstrates how the Chinese Communist Party coopts companies to expand its influence, including…
Text
President Trump's Remarks on China During September 15, 2020 ABC Town Hall
"STEPHANOPOULOS: I wanted to ask you about…
TRUMP: …China was heavily infected. And nobody, by the way, I read where other people said do it. No people that I saw said do it. And I know they said security advisors and others. I put a ban on when it wasn’t at all popular.
Joe Biden said I was xenophobic because I put the ban on, and I thought that was a very unfair -- and by the way he’s totally taken that back. But I’m…
Text
CBP’s Continued Enforcement Actions To Combat Forced Labor in China
"The Trump Administration has led the world in calling attention to the Chinese Communist Party’s egregious human rights abuses in Xinjiang, and we’ve taken action to back up our rhetoric. Today, we continue this record as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued five new Withhold Release Orders (WRO) for certain goods produced in the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
WROs prevent goods from being imported into the United States when made with forced labor. Upon issuing these WROs, CBP will detain shipments of…
Text
The Mekong-U.S. Partnership: The Mekong Region Deserves Good Partners
"The launch of the Mekong-U.S. Partnership reflects the importance of the Mekong region to the United States. Our relationship with Mekong partner countries is an integral part of our Indo-Pacific vision and our strategic partnership with ASEAN. With more than $150 million in initial investments in regional programs, we will build on the good work of the Lower Mekong Initiative and the $3.5 billion in regional U.S. assistance during the last eleven years.
The Mekong-U.S. Partnership is committed to the autonomy, economic independence, good governance…
Text
The United States Expresses Concern Over Hong Kong Democracy Activists Held in Guangdong Province
"The United States is deeply concerned that twelve Hong Kong democracy activists, arrested two weeks ago off the coast of Hong Kong by Guangdong Maritime Police, have been denied access to lawyers of their choice. Local authorities have yet to provide information regarding their welfare, or the charges against them. We question Chief Executive Lam’s stated commitment to protecting the rights of Hong Kong residents, and call on authorities to ensure due process."
Text
The Enduring U.S. Commitment to ASEAN
"America has long been a friend to ASEAN countries. At the ASEAN-U.S. Foreign Ministers’ meeting recently, I reaffirmed U.S. support for ASEAN’s role at the heart of the Indo-Pacific.
The ASEAN Outlook for the Indo-Pacific and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy share a respect for sovereignty, the rule of law, transparency, openness, and inclusivity. These shared principles form the core of our work with ASEAN and are the basis for this week’s launch of the Mekong-U.S. Partnership. We reiterate U.S. support for ASEAN as it speaks…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Shannon Bream of Fox News @ Night - North Korea
"QUESTION: Okay, Bob Woodward has a new book coming out. He has hours of tapes —
SECRETARY POMPEO: Yeah, so I heard.
QUESTION: — of conversations with the President. There are allegations that are not directly attributed to what the President said in their taped conversations. There are other things. But in particular, in talking about North Korea and Kim Jong-un, it says, “Trump remarked that he was awestruck” meeting Kim for the first time in 2018 in Singapore, thinking to himself, “holy [blank]” and…
Text
Remarks by Secretary Ross at the Department of Commerce's Investment Advisory Council [IAC] - China
"China in particular has become a bully in its neighborhood. It is destroying the freedoms of millions of people living in Hong Kong; engages in large-scale ethnic cleansing; is arresting journalists; spies on its students overseas; and continues to scrub the Internet, and not allow our best technology companies to operate there. It is attempting to steal our most import vaccine research.
And, worst of all, China concealed the true nature of a deadly novel virus, allowing tens of thousands of people to fly out…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Participation in 2020 ASEAN-United States Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo joined the annual ASEAN-United States Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with his counterparts from the 10 ASEAN member states via videoconference on September 9.
Secretary Pompeo and his ASEAN counterparts highlighted the breadth and depth of U.S. engagement and commitment to the ASEAN region. They discussed ASEAN and U.S. cooperation on regional political, security, economic, and cultural issues. The Secretary reiterated U.S. support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and its role in guiding U.S. engagement with ASEAN. He further…
Text
Secretary Pompeo’s Participation in the 10th East Asia Summit Virtual Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
"Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo joined counterparts from 17 countries for the 10th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting this morning. Secretary Pompeo highlighted U.S. support for principles of openness, inclusiveness, transparency, and respect for international law. These principles are shared across our Indo-Pacific vision, ASEAN’s Outlook on the Indo Pacific, and the visions of many other EAS member states.
The Secretary praised ASEAN unity and transparency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and outlined U.S. efforts to leverage all available resources to develop…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Ben Shapiro of The Ben Shapiro Show - China
"QUESTION: I’m speaking with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. So I know we’re kind of jumping around the globe here. What is the administration’s view on China policy these days? Obviously, the United States has taken a very negative view of how China has been expanding its authority. We’re seeing U.S. companies continue to stick with the Chinese Government. Are there going to be restrictions on what U.S. companies can do in China coming sometime in the near future given the fact that you can…
Text
Secretary Pompeo's Criticism of China's Media and Propaganda
"Today, the Chinese Communist Party’s main propaganda newspaper, the People’s Daily, refused to run an Op-ed written by our Ambassador in Beijing, Terry Branstad, citing a litany of grievances. Ironically, the Op-ed called for more positive relations between our two countries and asked to “build relationships through unrestricted engagement and uncensored discussion.” The People’s Daily’s response once again exposes the Chinese Communist Party’s fear of free speech and serious intellectual debate – as well as Beijing’s hypocrisy when it complains about lack of fair and…
Text
Remarks by President Trump in September 7, 2020 Press Conference - China
"Biden wants to surrender our country to the virus, he wants to surrender our families to the violent left-wing mob, and he wants to surrender our jobs to China — our jobs and our economic wellbeing. I’ve taken in billions and billions of dollars from China. No other President has done what I’ve done. I’ve given much of it to the farmers. I’ve given it to farmers and manufacturers, but I’ve given most of it to the U.S. Treasury. Nobody has done that. We haven’t…
Text
Remarks by President Trump in Press Briefing - India
"Q During the conventions, Kimberly and Don Jr. had the outreach — the Indian American community — with a video called “Four More Years” for you, which has gone viral among the Indian Americans in the battleground states.
So my question is: Would Kimberly, Don Jr., and Ivanka Trump, who are very popular among Indian Americans — would be campaigning on your behalf around the Indian Americans with your views on the India and U.S. relationship?
THE PRESIDENT: Well, I — I didn’t understand everything…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Hugh Hewitt of The Hugh Hewitt Show - China
"QUESTION: Now, Mr. Secretary, the last time I saw you was at the Nixon Library talking about China, and it was a historic speech, but – and with – it had fallen about 10 days, the China-Iran deal, and we didn’t talk about that because we didn’t quite yet know it. I’d like to ask you: How ominous is that partnership? And contrast it with the United Aram Emirates-Israeli deal that was put together by you and the President and the entire team, Jared, et…
Text
Secretary Pompeo With Steve Doocy, Jedediah Bila, and Pete Hegseth of Fox & Friends - China
"QUESTION: Secretary, another topic we’re looking at this morning is China. The President, as we know, is on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania, and while there he talked about China as it relates to COVID-19 and also talked about what a Biden administration would mean with respect to our relationship with China. Let’s take a listen to what he said, and then we’ll get your reaction:
PRESIDENT TRUMP: “Never has anybody ripped off our nation like China. We never took in 10 cents from China…
Text
Advancing Reciprocity in U.S.- China Diplomatic Relations
"For years, the PRC has imposed significant barriers on American diplomats working in the PRC that are far beyond diplomatic norms. PRC authorities implement a system of opaque approval processes designed to prevent American diplomats from conducting regular business and connecting with the Chinese people. U.S. diplomats’ attempts to host cultural events, secure official meetings, and visit university campuses are regularly obstructed.
In the United States, by contrast, PRC diplomats have enjoyed open access to American society, while ignoring sustained U.S. entreaties to improve the…