Tariffs Cast Shadow on US Diplomat's Asia Visit Amid China Tensions

Washington, Jul 9 (AP) President Donald Trump's imminent tariffs are casting a shadow over the forthcoming trip of his top diplomat to Asia, even as the US aims to strengthen ties with Indo-Pacific countries to counter China's increasing regional sway.

On Monday, Trump warned several nations of impending higher tariffs unless trade agreements are reached, impacting a number of Asian countries. This announcement comes just a day before Secretary of State Marco Rubio's scheduled visit to a regional security conference in Southeast Asia.

Representatives from at least eight countries targeted by these fresh US tariffs — which are set for August 1 — will be present at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur, which Rubio will attend on Thursday and Friday.

While the State Department notes Rubio's agenda will focus on maritime security in the South China Sea and fighting transnational crime, the looming tariff issues have already stirred concerns among close US allies like Japan and South Korea, who face potential 25% tariffs without a deal. Although not ASEAN members, both countries will send representatives to the forum.

Danny Russel, a former assistant secretary of state for East Asia, remarked that Rubio's 'talking points on China' might not appeal to officials whose industries face significant tariff hikes. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently indicated that ASEAN’s united approach is more likely aimed against US tariffs than Chinese coercion.

Among ASEAN nations, Trump has announced up to 40% tariffs on six out of ten members, including Malaysia, pressing them with 25% levies on electronics and electrical imports. However, Brunei, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam — the latter having reached a trade deal with Trump — have not yet been targeted.

In Kuala Lumpur, Rubio may also interact with the foreign ministers of China and Russia, although no specific meetings are confirmed in his limited 36-hour schedule.

Russel highlighted that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is well-versed with ASEAN formalities, while Rubio faces the challenge of promoting an 'America First' message among wary attendees. Tensions with both China and Russia remain high, notably over the Ukraine conflict.

On Tuesday, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Russian President Vladimir Putin over escalating attacks in Ukraine, alongside announcing the US will resume defensive arms shipments to Ukraine after a sudden pause last week.

US officials have accused China of bolstering Russia's military capabilities, allowing it to manufacture additional arms for its Ukrainian offensive. (AP)

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