US VP Mike Pence en route to Australia, regional security and trade high on agenda

US Vice-President Mike Pence is due to arrive in Sydney this evening and the Acting US Ambassador says regional security and trade issues are likely to be high on the agenda.

US Vice-President Mike Pence, a man considered by Australian officials to be the “calm, sane and measured” presence in President Donald Trump’s White House, will arrive in Sydney tonight for a visit that is expected to focus on regional security concerns and trade.

Key points:

• Acting US Ambassador to Australia, James Carouso, says VP Pence’s trip is to “reassure Australia of the closeness of the relationship” under the Trump administration
• A senior Australian official predicts North Korea tensions will provide a “lively” background to the discussions
• South China Sea, trade, regional security and military tensions are also likely to be on agenda

Mr Pence is wrapping up a tour of Asia reassuring allies of America’s commitment to the region under the new Trump administration.

Acting US Ambassador to Australia, James Carouso, says the Vice-President’s visit to Australia underlines the importance of this country to America.

“His purpose is basically to meet with our allies and close partners in the region as part of the new administration reaching out and getting the benefit of the views and insight of our partners about the region,” Mr Caruso said.

Source: US Vice-President Mike Pence en route to Australia, regional security and trade high on agenda – Donald Trump’s America – ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)