US stresses backing for Japan, Korea and Taiwan ahead of Trump-Xi summit

The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to defending Japan and South Korea, as well as supporting Taiwan, prior to a summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Analysts suggest that Asian allies are apprehensive about Trump potentially making concessions to Xi, particularly concerning Taiwan and trade, in exchange for a favorable economic deal when they meet at the White House on Thursday.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung have expressed interest in meeting Trump during the UN General Assembly in New York, where all three leaders are scheduled to address the assembly on Tuesday. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio convened with his South Korean counterpart Cho Hyun and Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi in New York on Monday.

In a joint statement, the three nations vowed to remain steadfast against economic coercion and non-market practices, while also welcoming the creation of a new trilateral consultation mechanism focused on economic security. They emphasized their dedication to safeguarding Japan and South Korea's defense, backed by America's vast military capabilities, including nuclear power.

The ministers also stressed the importance of upholding peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and reaffirmed their resolve to achieve the complete denuclearization of North Korea, urging it to resume dialogue. The statement addressed concerns over Taiwan, a democratically governed island claimed by China. Allies will be closely monitoring any trade announcements from the Trump-Xi summit to assess their impact on competitiveness relative to China.

Analysts warn that even a slight reduction in trade barriers for Beijing could weaken the position of Asian allies. Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi previously incensed Beijing by suggesting Tokyo might be drawn into a conflict over Taiwan, and South Korea and the US have been negotiating terms of a $350 billion trade deal between the allies struck last year.

A South Korean opposition lawmaker called for parliamentary review of the investment package, warning that negotiations over energy projects could expose South Korea to disproportionate financial risks.