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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Presidential Message in Commemoration of the 77th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea
"On behalf of the United States, the First Lady and I send our greetings to the people of Australia and to all those gathered to commemorate the 77th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea. More than three-quarters of a century ago, American and Australian naval and air forces fought together to protect our shared values of freedom and democracy. The Battle of the Coral Sea demonstrated the strong relationship between the United States and Australia, which has continued to promote peace and prosperity…
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Interview With Maria Bartiromo of Mornings With Maria on Fox Business Network - China
"QUESTION: And very quickly, Mr. Secretary, before you go, a word on China. The Treasury Secretary Mnuchin and Bob Lighthizer holding trade talks in China. You have had your own investigation and serious and important approach to China’s behavior. Tell us how you look at this. As we’re talking about business and trade, you’re looking at espionage and bad behavior from China in a whole host of other areas.
SECRETARY POMPEO: Maria, China presents an enormous challenge for the United States. They are a country…
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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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Secretary Pompeo's Interview With Bret Baier of Fox News - North Korea
"QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, I have two more questions for you. One is on North Korea, the North Koreans saying there needs to be a new approach to denuclearization. Are you still hopeful that that is all going to come together seeing what you’re seeing now?
SECRETARY POMPEO: I am. I still remain hopeful, Bret. There’s only one real approach to denuclearization, that’s to denuclearize, right, to begin to take down the threat. And we’re prepared to engage in conversations to arrive at a process by…
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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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Secretary Pompeo's Remarks at the Business Executives for National Security (BENS) Gala and Awards Ceremony - China
"Our fights today are a little bit different, and I thought I’d talk to you just for a minute about China and how it presents itself as a threat today. I’ve spoken to Secretary Kissinger now – it’s been three or four weeks, I think – and was talking to him, and he reminded me of the amazing work that he had done when he was in my role, in China, with the belief that if the economy grew and democracy would surely follow in…
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Republic of the Marshall Islands National Day
"On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my highest regards to the people of the Republic of the Marshall Islands on your 40th Constitution Day, May 1.
Our two countries share a deep friendship between our governments and our peoples. We are eternally grateful for the dedicated service of Marshallese citizens in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The Marshall Islands is a key partner in creating a vision for the Indo-Pacific that is prosperous, safe, and secure. I look forward…
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Secretary Pompeo's Conversation With The Hill's Editor-in-Chief Bob Cusack The Hill's Newsmaker Series - North Korea
"MR CUSACK: North Korea, they said – North Korea has said they want you out of the talks. Is that – any chance that happens?
SECRETARY POMPEO: The President gets to decide that. (Laughter.) We don’t get to decide who my counterpart is, and President Trump gets to decide who will represent America. I still have the conn.
MR CUSACK: Okay. That’s a good way of putting it. (Laughter.) You’ve said recently there will likely be a third summit with North Korea. Will that happen…
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Secretary Pompeo's Conversation With The Hill's Editor-in-Chief Bob Cusack The Hill's Newsmaker Series - China
"MR CUSACK: Do you think this will have a negative impact on trade talks with China?
SECRETARY POMPEO: No, I don’t believe so. I talked with Secretary Mnuchin end of last week. He’s in China today – or not today, tomorrow – to continue the negotiations. We’ve had lots of talks with China about this issue. I am confident that the trade talks will continue and run their natural course."
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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…