Concerns Arise Over President Biden's Absence at ASEAN Summits Amid China's Expanding Influence
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US President Joe Biden
In a climate of growing Chinese influence across the region, questions are being raised about the potential absence of US President Joe Biden from upcoming meetings with Southeast Asian leaders in Jakarta. While Biden has expressed intentions to visit Vietnam and attend the G20 summit in India, his presence at the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings scheduled from September 4 to 7 is increasingly uncertain.
According to sources familiar with the matter, President Biden is unlikely to attend the Jakarta summits. A senior diplomat has confirmed that Indonesia was informed of this potential absence. Although the notion of Vice President Kamala Harris representing Biden has been discussed, the White House has not yet confirmed this alternative.
This potential absence follows disappointment in the region due to Biden's postponement of a trip to Australia and Papua New Guinea for personal reasons. Given the administration's focus on the region's significance, the decision to skip the ASEAN meetings while attending the G20 conference in India could raise questions about the US commitment. Policy analysts emphasize that Southeast Asian countries have welcomed the expanded US presence under Biden's leadership. However, his non-appearance may fuel speculations of wavering engagement.
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