"So as we just heard from Mara, a lot of deals were at stake during this trip. Many countries in the region have been unhappy about how the Trump administration has handled their partnerships. You know, you're out of government now, but you're still working on Asia issues. Does this matter? Is there any indication that this unhappiness is going to - is there going to be any pushback to the president's demands?"
"Well, we just heard a great report about how China is pushing back, but many of these other countries are in a more delicate position. I think almost all the countries in Asia want the United States to remain engaged. So this trip has brought with it some anticipation, but a lot of apprehension because clearly President Trump's favorite tool dealing with a lot of these countries in trade terms is coercion."
President Trump pursued deals and pressure during the Asia trip while aiming to limit China's regional influence. Asian governments generally want continued U.S. engagement but feel apprehensive about coercive trade tactics. Many leaders seek agreements that preserve economic growth while keeping the United States present as a counterweight to China. A ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia followed tariff threats, illustrating leverage through trade pressure. China is simultaneously pushing back, complicating regional dynamics. Countries occupy delicate positions balancing economic ties with China against security and strategic interest in U.S. engagement.
Read at www.npr.org
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