US steps up Apec role after Xi–Trump call as ties with China show signs of thaw

Just days after Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump held a two-hour phone call aimed at stabilising bilateral ties, the US confirmed it would play an active role at this year’s first Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) senior officials’ meetings in Guangzhou, signalling intensified engagement with Beijing.The US State Department announced on Friday that a “team of experts”, led by senior US official Casey Mace and Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Ruth Perry, would use the gathering to advance the Trump administration’s “America first” foreign policy priorities.The US delegation aims to “deepen efforts to open Asian markets to American exports” and promote deregulation and US-friendly business policies, the note said.The group also plans to take “decisive action” against illegal fishing, marine debris and the illicit timber trade, which the statement framed as threats to American businesses, workers and national security.FULL EVENT: US President Donald Trump speaks at DavosFULL EVENT: US President Donald Trump speaks at DavosBy “promoting American technology and industry”, the administration said it was seeking to “open new markets in Asia”, “restore a level playing field for American companies” and support “good jobs at home”, while also “leading international efforts to protect the environment”.