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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Readout of Vice President Mike Pence’s Telephone Call with Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia
"Vice President Mike Pence spoke by phone last night with Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia Scott Morrison, congratulating him on his Coalition’s win in the Australian Federal elections. He reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship and enduring alliance between the United States and Australia."
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Australian Federal Elections
"The United States congratulates Mr. Scott Morrison and the Coalition on their victory in the May 18 Australian federal election. The United States and Australia share a close and enduring partnership based on our shared values and our strong economic, cultural, and historical ties. The U.S.-Australia alliance is strong, and our cooperation is helping to create a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The United States looks forward to continuing to work together with the Coalition government on our shared vision for a peaceful and more prosperous…
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Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting With Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Leader Martin Lee
"Secretary Michael R. Pompeo met with Hong Kong pro-democracy leader Martin Lee and his delegation today in Washington, DC, to discuss the status of Hong Kong’s autonomy under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. Secretary Pompeo expressed concern about the Hong Kong government’s proposed amendments to the Fugitive Ordinance law, which threaten Hong Kong’s rule of law. He also expressed support for Hong Kong’s longstanding protections of human rights, fundamental freedoms, and democratic values, which are guaranteed under the Basic Law."
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Statement from the President Regarding the Enthronement of His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito
"The First Lady and I send our most profound congratulations on behalf of all Americans to Their Majesties the Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako on his enthronement as the new Emperor of Japan. As the Japanese people embark upon a new era, “Reiwa,” we will renew the strong bonds of friendship between our two countries. “Reiwa” means “beautiful harmony,” and it is our sincere wish that our alliance continue to flourish and deepen in this spirit. Today, our kindest thoughts are with the Japanese people…
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Presidential Proclamation on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 2019
"The contributions of Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent are firmly woven into the diverse fabric of our Nation. During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage that have enriched our great country and helped define our history. These Americans bolster our economy as entrepreneurs, business owners, and employees who initiate and expand opportunities for their families, communities, and country. Their languages, art, cuisine, and other cultural elements have enriched the…
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Statement from President Donald J. Trump Regarding the Abdication of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito
"On behalf of the American people, the First Lady and I offer our heartfelt appreciation to Their Majesties the Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. As the Heisei era draws to a close and a new generation prepares to ascend the throne, I want to recognize the tremendous importance that the United States attaches to its close relationship with Japan. Emperor Akihito welcomed five United States presidents to Japan and reigned from the end of the Cold War to the present day. Our bilateral relationship was…
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Secretary Pompeo's Remarks on Bangladesh's Election
"The United States commends the tens of millions of Bangladeshis who voted in Bangladesh’s 11th parliamentary election on December 30, 2018, as well as the decision of all major opposition political parties to participate, a positive development after the boycotted election of 2014.
The United States remains deeply invested in the future of Bangladesh and its democratic development. The United States is Bangladesh’s largest foreign investor, largest single-country market for Bangladeshi exports, and home to a large community of Americans of Bangladeshi origin.
In this…
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Secretary Tillerson's Meeting With Republic of Korea Special Envoy Hong Seok-hyun
"On May 18, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson met with Republic of Korea Ambassador Hong Seok-hyun, President Moon Jae-in’s Special Envoy to the United States.
During the meeting, Secretary Tillerson congratulated the Moon administration on its recent election. The Secretary reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to defend the Republic of Korea against threats from North Korea. The two also discussed the importance of our continued close coordination."