Biden names envoy to SE Asia bloc, stressing US attention

By AAMER MADHANI
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden says he’s nominating one of his top national security aides to serve as his ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It’s a move meant to underscore his administration’s commitment to the Pacific region despite the recent focus on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Biden announced his decision to tap Yohannes Abraham, chief of staff to the White House National Security Council, to serve as his ambassador to the 10-country bloc as he wrapped up summit talks with the visiting leaders on Friday. It’s Biden’s latest effort to send the message that he’s serious about recalibrating American foreign policy to counter China’s rapid rise as a national security and economic power.