Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken’s whirlwind tour of Asia last week, visiting six nations in six days, concluded with a friendly gesture in Mongolia. During a traditional outdoor event featuring wrestling, archery, and equestrianism in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, the prime minister gifted Mr. Blinken with a horse. The new companion was named Frontier by Mr. Blinken, and a horse selfie was taken with the prime minister. This gesture symbolized the strong bond between Mongolia and the United States, referred to as a “third neighbor” by officials in both countries, offering an alternative to neighboring China and Russia.
Gifts of horses from Mongolia have been presented to other U.S. officials in the past, such as Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., President Donald J. Trump, and Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld. Just like his predecessors, Mr. Blinken did not bring his horse back home to the U.S., highlighting the geographical distance between the two countries. Mongolia operates in a multipolar world, distinct from the post-Cold War era of American triumphalism.
Mr. Blinken’s visit to Mongolia also underscored the nation’s strategic partnerships with a variety of countries, including China and the United States. While many Asian nations seek to strengthen ties with the U.S. to counterbalance China’s growing influence, they also engage with China due to its proximity and military presence. Mongolia’s “third-neighbor policy” emphasizes the importance of the United States in maintaining a balance of power in the region.
The complexity of U.S. foreign policy in Asia was evident during Mr. Blinken’s trip, which aimed to enhance military alliances with Japan and the Philippines. The visit also reassured other nations, such as Laos, Vietnam, and Singapore, of America’s commitment to the region. As President Biden has emphasized, the U.S. remains a Pacific power and a key player in Asia.
Despite the focus on military alliances, Mr. Blinken’s trip raised questions about U.S. economic engagement in the region. Following America’s withdrawal from a major free trade agreement under the Trump administration, Asian nations are uncertain about the U.S. commitment to economic competition with China. The Biden administration’s new regional trade initiative, the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, has yet to fully materialize, leaving Asian leaders skeptical about its impact.
In discussions with Asian leaders, Mr. Blinken emphasized the importance of fair trade practices and addressing challenges posed by Chinese state subsidies. While promoting democracy and trade are interconnected, concerns about protectionism and trade barriers persist. The U.S. seeks to balance economic interests with strategic partnerships in the region.
Mr. Blinken’s efforts to engage with China and other Asian nations reflect America’s complex relationship with the region. While the U.S. aims to maintain its global influence, it must navigate the challenges posed by China’s rise and address concerns about containment. The trip highlighted the delicate balance of power in Asia and the importance of diplomatic dialogue to address regional issues.