Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to engage in a week of critical diplomacy as he attends two significant international summits in South Korea and Malaysia. The discussions at the ASEAN and APEC gatherings will prominently feature the impact of Donald Trump‘s tariffs and the increasing influence of China in the Pacific region.
Upcoming Summits and Diplomatic Tensions
Albanese will meet with several world leaders during the summits, where economic and geopolitical issues are likely to dominate conversations. Donald Trump is expected to participate in both events, where he plans to sign a trade deal with the Malaysian Prime Minister and facilitate a peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand. Additionally, he will hold discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Following their successful meeting at the White House earlier this week, which included the signing of a critical minerals agreement, Trump is anticipated to have an informal conversation with Albanese. However, the former president’s presence casts a significant shadow over the proceedings, particularly as nations seek to renegotiate trade terms following the imposition of U.S. tariffs.
Pru Gordon, a former Australian trade official, noted that Trump may face considerable pressure from other leaders regarding his tariff policies. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he leaves early, because he will be getting polite ear bashing from other leaders,” said Dr. Gordon, who serves as the Executive Director of the Australian Centre for International Trade and Investment.
Regional Dynamics and Trade Relationships
Despite the challenges posed by the U.S.-China trade relationship, which has led to a marked decline in sales for some countries, many nations have found ways to navigate around American tariffs. Dr. Gordon highlighted that while the World Trade Organization has 166 members, 165 of them continue to trade among themselves as they did prior to the tariff implementation.
As the Trump-Xi meeting is expected to take centre stage, international security expert John Blaxland from the Australian National University indicated that Southeast Asian leaders are likely to refrain from aligning too closely with either the U.S. or China. Countries traditionally supportive of China, such as Cambodia and Laos, are still interested in collaborating with Australia discreetly.
“They’re all looking to mind their Ps and Qs and work closely with any partners like Australia, but not make a big hullabaloo about it,” Blaxland remarked, emphasizing the nuanced nature of diplomatic relations in the region.
He further stated that the dynamics of great power politics do not preclude constructive engagement with neighboring countries. “The great power game is on. But it doesn’t mean we have to stop being constructive in our engagement with our neighbours,” he concluded.
As Albanese prepares for these crucial summits, the outcomes will likely shape the future of trade relationships and geopolitical alliances in the Asia-Pacific region.
