Biden hosts ASEAN as he looks to show Pacific commitment

By AAMER MADHANI
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is hosting leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as his administration continues an effort to demonstrate that the United States hasn’t lost focus on the Pacific. Biden will kick off his talks over a White House dinner Thursday evening with leaders from the eight ASEAN nations attending the two-day summit. Leaders will take part in more formal talks on Friday at the State Department. Biden’s attempt at an “Asia pivot” has been complicated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The president has said he sees China as the most threatening economic and national security adversary to the United States.