U.S.-Southeast Asia relations

Contrary to the ongoing strategic tensions, most people in the region welcome good relations with and between the United States and China.

A briefing from Sydney's Lowy Institute argues that the U.S. has lost influence to China in recent years, especially in terms of its economic and diplomatic engagement.

"Absent a major crisis, policy toward Southeast Asia tends to be a corollary of policies toward those major powers, most notably China."

During her recent visit to the Philippines, Vice President Kamala Harris indicated that the U.S. is ready to step up its economic engagement in strategic sectors.

The Biden administration has announced its intention to compete more vigorously with China for Southeast Asia's EV market.

Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris will represent the U.S. at the upcoming APEC Summit in Bangkok.

Beijing is an economic power in most of the region, but it can't compete with the long-established U.S. business presence.

The post has been filled by Yohannes Abraham, a former member of President Joe Biden's National Security Council.

The top U.S. diplomat will visit Cambodia and the Philippines en route to a three-nation tour of Africa.

The pursuit of an elevated partnership provides a valuable opportunity for both sides to shape an updated, shared agenda.

In recent weeks, the Cambodian government has given hints that it is open to an improvement in relations with Washington.

The region has thrown its support behind Washington's long-awaited economic engagement plan, even as the specifics remain vague.