The three leaders discussed their trilateral partnership, which Biden has strengthened to counter North Korea’s threats and China’s rising influence.
Biden expressed confidence that the U.S.-Japan-South Korea alliance will endure, despite political shifts. “The partnership is built to last,” he said. He also voiced concern over North Korea’s growing cooperation with Russia, particularly its potential involvement in the Ukraine war.
The leaders will announce the creation of a secretariat to formalize their alliance and ensure its continuity. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that the alliance will likely persist under any future U.S. administration, including a second Trump term.
Trump’s recent election win has overshadowed Biden’s trips to the APEC and G20 summits.
Trump’s “America First” agenda may disrupt U.S. alliances, but experts believe his stance on key allies like Japan and South Korea will stay the same, especially with China hawks in his cabinet.
On the sidelines of the summit, Biden will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss the escalating U.S.-China tensions.
