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With the end of the Biden administration coming to an end, how is the US progressing in Southeast Asia? This region is critical and the trend is worrying. Despite a year-long "Indo-Pacific Strategy," Washington has yet to lay out a clear trade agenda. Biden's overall aim of putting allies and partners at the center of his foreign policy is evident in Southeast Asia.

User Liraz
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The Biden administration has placed a strong emphasis on Southeast Asia as a region of strategic importance, especially in the context of the Indo-Pacific. The administration has been seeking to strengthen alliances and partnerships in the region, and has been engaging with regional organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

In terms of trade, the Biden administration has not yet laid out a clear agenda for the region. However, the US has been participating in discussions on the proposed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which would create a free trade agreement between ASEAN and several other countries in the region.

Overall, the US engagement in Southeast Asia has been driven by a desire to counter China's growing influence in the region, while also strengthening regional security and economic ties. While there have been some concerns about the pace of US engagement, the Biden administration's focus on allies and partners is seen as a positive step by many in the region.

User Yan Takushevich
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