\”Following his re-election as president of the United States, Asia Pacific leaders are working to strengthen ties with Donald Trump, despite uncertainties surrounding regional security. Leaders such as Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto have expressed optimism about enhancing alliances with the US. Even Chinese President Xi Jinping has shown positivity towards Trump, despite previous tensions over trade issues. However, concerns linger among Asian leaders about Trump’s unpredictable nature and the implications for regional security, especially with the rise of China’s assertiveness and North Korea’s nuclear threats. The potential impact of Trump’s return to power on longstanding relationships and regional pacts, such as the Quad and AUKUS, remains uncertain. Some experts believe that Trump’s ‘America first’ stance may lead to shifts in alliances and create challenges for collective action in the region. Taiwan, in particular, faces potential risks as it relies on US support to deter Chinese aggression. Taiwan may need to increase defence spending and strengthen ties with other countries to ensure its security. As Trump begins his second term, the dynamics of US-Taiwan relations and the broader regional security landscape are likely to evolve, requiring careful navigation by all parties involved.\”
