The U.S. State Department has conducted its first press briefing since the Trump administration took office, announcing Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will take a trip to Asia.
[Mark Toner, State Department Spokesman]
“Asia is of course, a key engine of economic growth and dynamism that the U.S. believes is crucial to the growth of its own economy.”
China will be a focal point of the tour.
[Mark Toner, State Department Spokesman]
“This administration is also intent on pursuing a constructive relationship with China … Secretary Tillerson has already met with China’s state councillor, as well as its foreign minister…while remaining determined to ensure that China abides by international rules and plays fair with respect to trade, regional issues and of course human rights.”
Trump repeatedly talked about China during his campaign, often with regards to a trade imbalance between China and the U.S. and dealing with North Korea.
Now the administration has a chance start negotiating deals on these sensitive issues.
