Biden sends Sullivan to Tokyo for talks with Japan, Philippines, South Korea officials.

President Biden Sends National Security Adviser to Tokyo for Talks

President Joe Biden is taking action to strengthen alliances in Asia amid rising tensions with China. This week, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan will be heading to Tokyo for talks with his counterparts from Japan, Philippines, and South Korea.

Sullivan’s visit will include the first-ever trilateral meeting of the Japanese, Philippine, and U.S. national security advisers. The White House National Security Council stated that the discussions will focus on deepening collaboration on various regional and global issues.

Recently, U.S., Japanese, and Philippine coast guard ships conducted law enforcement drills near the disputed South China Sea. While the United States does not claim any territory in the area, it emphasizes the importance of freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes in the region.

During a reception at the White House, President Biden mentioned Ambassador Rahm Emanuel’s absence, stating that he was preparing for Sullivan’s visit. This confirms Sullivan’s upcoming travels and highlights the ongoing strained relations between the United States and China.

Tensions and Recent Events

• The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) conducted military exercises around Taiwan after a visit by then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
• The United States shot down a Chinese spy balloon that entered its airspace.
• Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen’s stopover in the United States, including a meeting with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, further angered China.
• The White House recently confirmed the existence of a CCP spy base in Cuba, which was upgraded in 2019.