U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday began his first Asia-Pacific tour since his re-election, arriving in Malaysia to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit.

The visit marks the start of a six-day diplomatic trip aimed at strengthening U.S. influence in the region amid rising tensions with China.

Tariffs, rare earth minerals, and regional security are among the top priorities of the summit, which comes at a time of renewed economic and strategic rivalry between Washington and Beijing.

During the opening day of the gathering, Trump presided over the signing of a peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. The accord includes commitments to withdraw military forces from disputed border areas and expand humanitarian cooperation. Trump hailed the deal as “a historic step toward peace and stability in Southeast Asia,” emphasizing the United States’ role as a facilitator of dialogue.

In his address to ASEAN leaders, Trump underlined the importance of supply chain security and called for collective action to ensure fair trade practices. He reiterated that the U.S. would continue working with regional allies to reduce dependence on Chinese critical minerals and to promote open markets.

Following his meetings in Malaysia, Trump will travel to Japan and South Korea. A major highlight of the trip will be his scheduled face-to-face meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan on October 30 — their first since Trump returned to the White House. The encounter is expected to focus on trade tariffs, technology restrictions, and geopolitical stability in the Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. president’s trip comes shortly after his administration announced plans to increase tariffs on Chinese imports and strengthen domestic production of rare earth materials. Analysts say Trump aims to project an image of strong leadership abroad while pursuing economic independence at home.

Regional diplomats view Trump’s renewed engagement with ASEAN as part of Washington’s broader effort to counterbalance China’s growing presence in the Asia-Pacific. The summit is expected to conclude with a joint declaration emphasizing cooperation in trade, digital infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.

Trump’s Asia-Pacific tour underscores his administration’s focus on strategic partnerships, economic security, and a more assertive American role in shaping the region’s future. (ILKHA)