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 Secretary Mattis and Japanese Prime Minister Abe
"I wanted my first trip to be here to this region. I want there to be no misunderstanding during this transition in Washington that we stand firmly, 100 percent, shoulder-to-shoulder with you and the Japanese people, Mr. Prime Minister. Due to some of the provocations out of North Korea and other challenges that we jointly face, I want to make certain that Article Five of our mutual defense treaty is understood to be as real to us today as it was a year ago, five…
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Secretary Mattis' Meetings with Korean Officials
"Secretary Mattis met with Republic of Korea (ROK)Acting President and Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-Ahn and ROKNational Security Advisor Kim Kwan-Jin today in Seoul, South Korea to reaffirm the strength of the U.S.-ROK alliance. During the meetings, the secretary emphasized the priority that President Trump places on the Asia-Pacific, and on strengthening the U.S.-ROK alliance. He also underscored that the United States remains steadfast in its commitment to defend the ROK and that the U.S. extended deterrence commitment remains ironclad. Both ROK officials impressed upon Secretary…
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Secretary Mattis' Call with Korean Minister of National Defense Han
"Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis spoke today by telephone with Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense Han Minkoo to introduce himself and reaffirm the U.S. commitment to defend the ROK and provide extended deterrence using the full range of U.S. capabilities. Defense Minister Han congratulated Secretary Mattis on his confirmation and both wished each other a happy and prosperous Lunar New Year. The two affirmed that the U.S.-ROK alliance of more than 60 years remains even more relevant today and determined to take…
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President Trump's Call with South Korean Acting President Hwang
"President Trump and Acting President Hwang Kyo-Ahn of the Republic of Korea (ROK) spoke by telephone today. Acting President Hwang congratulated the President on his inauguration. The two discussed the importance of the U.S.-ROK alliance. President Trump reiterated our ironclad commitment to defend the ROK, including through the provision of extended deterrence, using the full range of military capabilities. The two leaders agreed to take steps to strengthen joint defense capabilities to defend against the North Korean threat. They also discussed Secretary of Defense Mattis's…
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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."