ASEAN Seeks to Uphold Regional Autonomy During Trump‑Led U.S. Visit to Manila
President Trump’s arrival in Manila this week for the ASEAN Summit carries significance that extends beyond standard diplomatic protocol. As Southeast Asia becomes an increasingly contested arena in the strategic rivalry between Washington and Beijing, the U.S. president’s presence offers a vital opportunity to reaffirm America’s regional commitments. For ASEAN, the crucial question is whether the summit will produce concrete outcomes that shape the balance of power in the region.
