In a high-stakes meeting amid growing trade hostilities, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Kuala Lumpur during the East Asia Summit. This marked Rubio's first Asia visit since taking office, aiming to reaffirm U.S. presence in the Indo-Pacific. However, Trump's sudden tariff offensive—slapping 25-40% duties on major Asian economies—has intensified regional friction. China condemned the U.S. move as "bullying behavior," warning nations against cutting Beijing from global supply chains.
Rubio also discussed security and tech cooperation with Japanese, South Korean, and Southeast Asian leaders. While Rubio remained tight-lipped during the talks, Wang launched a blistering critique of U.S. policies. Meanwhile, ASEAN ministers voiced alarm over trade disruptions, signaling a tilt toward diversification. With deadlines looming and diplomacy on edge, the clash of giants over Asia’s future has just begun.
