Trump is in Manila on November 12 and 13, but returns to Washington before the EAS on November 14. People familiar with the matter said one key focus of the Modi-Trump meeting will be the Indo-Pacific region and the impact of China’s ambitions and activities in the South China Sea. In late September, US defence secretary Jim Mattis visited India. Hindustan Times learned that the senate confirmation for US ambassador designate to India Kenneth Juster will go through before the Modi-Trump meeting in Manila. However, the key focus of the Modi-Trump meeting will be the Indo-Pacific, with Asean countries largely impacted by aggressive Chinese behaviour in the South China Sea.

Source: Hindustan Times October 29, 2017 01:41 UTC