US President Joe Biden had planned to hold a trilateral telephone call with Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Sunday. However, the call has been postponed to early Monday, as confirmed by Marcos’s spokesman, Cesar Chavez. The delay is attributed to the ongoing wildfire crisis in California.
Wildfires Prompt Schedule Changes for US President Biden
The California wildfires have forced President Biden to alter his schedule, leading to the rescheduling of the call that was initially planned for Sunday. Biden is prioritising federal efforts to address the growing crisis in Los Angeles, where wildfires continue to devastate large areas. As a result, his previously scheduled trip to Italy from January 9-12 was also canceled to focus on the response to the ongoing disaster.
Key Agenda for the Trilateral Call
The three leaders—Biden, Ishiba, and Marcos—are expected to discuss critical matters related to mutual cooperation, economic partnerships, and recent regional and global developments. The focus of the call will be on strengthening ties between the US, Japan, and the Philippines, particularly in light of China’s expanding influence over the South China Sea, a contested region that has seen increased military presence and strategic interests from all three countries.
US Focus Shifts Amid Leadership Transition
The trilateral call comes as President Biden’s term is nearing its conclusion. He will hand over the reins of power to former President Donald Trump, who is scheduled to be sworn in as the next US leader on January 20. The transition marks a significant political shift, but the ongoing wildfires have taken precedence, highlighting the complex nature of global leadership amidst domestic crises.
The upcoming call will likely emphasize the ongoing efforts between the US, Japan, and the Philippines to bolster regional security and address challenges posed by the rapid rise of China’s influence in the region. The conversation also signals continued engagement between these key nations, even as the US prepares for a new administration.
