Hi Focus Readers,

Today, Camp David became a focal point once again as President Joe Biden and the leaders of Japan and South Korea met for a historic trilateral summit.

Appearing jointly at a press conference following their meeting, Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, touted a "new era of partnership" that includes expanded security and economic cooperation, annual military exercises, and other mechanisms to deepen their alliance.

The three leaders took special care to frame their meeting, saying it was "not about China." However, it is widely seen as a move to counter China's growing influence in the region, with a number of potential flashpoint issues such as Taiwan, the South China Sea, and a nuclearized North Korea.

Also this week, there are indications of further potential diplomatic engagement between China and the U.S., following a series of high-level dialogues over the summer. China has stated that it would welcome a visit by U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, even in the wake of foreign investment controls imposed by her agency that have stung a number of Chinese companies. No specific date has been set, but there have been speculations that the trip could come later this month.

In the meantime, we encourage you to catch up on our latest Focus content, including topics covering China-Australia relations, Beijing and Washington's relationships with developing nations, China's economy, and more.

Have a good weekend!

Team Focus