Biden, Japan, South Korea Leaders Meet in Peru

U.S. President Joe Biden convened with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol during the APEC Summit in Lima to discuss collaboration against North Korea's growing ties with Russia and the challenges posed by the incoming Trump administration. The leaders emphasized the importance of their trilateral relationship, aiming to enhance stability in the Indo-Pacific and address North Korea's nuclear threats amid escalating tensions in the region. They are expected to establish a 'secretariat' to formalize their cooperation, building on Biden’s diplomatic achievements in fostering collaboration between South Korea and Japan, historically marked by mutual resentment. The meeting comes at a crucial time, as North Korea's support for Russia's war in Ukraine and a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump raises concerns about the future of these alliances. Biden's administration seeks to counteract the uncertainty surrounding U.S. commitments to its allies, especially as relations with Beijing are anticipated to become more confrontational following Trump's inauguration. Overall, the leaders' discussions reflect a commitment to maintain a united front against regional threats.