President Joe Biden will host a summit at the White House next month with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The summit will address growing concerns about North Korea's nuclear program, China's actions in the South China Sea, and a Japanese company's proposed acquisition of an American steel company.
The summit comes amid heightened tensions in the region. North Korea has recently conducted a live-fire drill of nuclear-capable missiles, while China and the Philippines have been involved in a collision in the disputed South China Sea.
The U.S.-Japan relationship is also facing a rare moment of friction due to Biden's opposition to the sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel of Japan. The transaction has raised concerns about its impact on American workers, supply chains, and national security.
Meanwhile, the Philippines and China have a long-standing dispute over the South China Sea. Chinese coast guard vessels have blocked Philippine vessels and executed dangerous maneuvers, preventing the delivery of construction materials to a Philippine warship marooned on a disputed shoal.
Despite historical complications, the U.S. and the Philippines have been strengthening their relationship under Biden and Marcos. Both leaders share concerns about China's aggressive actions in the region.
In addition to the leaders' summit, Biden will hold one-on-one talks with Marcos to discuss cooperation on economic security, clean energy, human rights, and democracy. Biden will also honor Kishida with a state visit a day before the summit.