The US State Department announced on Monday (July 22) that Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will visit several Asian countries including Japan, the Philippines, and Vietnam from July 24 to August 3.
This visit marks Blinken’s 18th trip to the Indo-Pacific region since taking office as Secretary of State. The State Department stated that Blinken will focus on strengthening and expanding relationships with these countries to unprecedented levels in order to address the most pressing challenges of today.
During a teleconference introducing Blinken’s Asia trip, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel J. Kritenbrink emphasized the importance of Japan and the Philippines. The alliances between the United States and these two countries have never been stronger.
This Asian tour takes place against the backdrop of continued tension in US-China relations. In Vientiane, Blinken will participate in the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and related conferences, including the ASEAN-US Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the East Asia Summit, and the ASEAN Regional Forum.
Kritenbrink mentioned that it is expected for Blinken to have the opportunity to engage with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the regional conferences on this trip. As the trip approaches, the State Department will release more information.
During his visit to Japan, Blinken will hold a 2+2 meeting with US Defense Secretary Austin along with Japan’s Foreign Minister and Defense Minister. A similar 2+2 meeting will also take place between the US and the Philippines during Blinken’s visit there.
The US and Japan will discuss bilateral cooperation to further enhance US extended deterrence supported by Japan’s defense capabilities.
In a summit in April, the US and Japan announced plans to enhance their military alliance, including increased joint development of defense equipment.
Secretary of State Blinken will also participate in the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo with counterparts from Australia, India, and Japan to discuss how the four countries can continue to bring tangible benefits to the Indo-Pacific region.