Blinken’s Final Trip to Asia and Europe as Top US Diplomat

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken

The U.S. State Department announced on Friday that Blinken will travel to Seoul, Tokyo, and Paris starting Sunday, aiming to underscore the Biden administration’s enduring commitment to strengthening global partnerships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region and Europe.

In South Korea, which has been grappling with political turbulence following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol and the subsequent declaration of martial law, Blinken will seek to reaffirm U.S.-South Korea relations. Despite recent political upheavals, the U.S. insists that the alliance remains strong, with Blinken expected to discuss continued collaboration on global challenges, particularly on issues related to North Korea’s nuclear threat and China’s rising influence.

In Japan, Blinken will focus on deepening the U.S.-Japan alliance, which has seen significant progress in recent years. This includes the approval of a $3.64 billion U.S. arms sale to Japan, including medium-range missiles, associated equipment, and training. The sale, which has drawn criticism from China, is viewed by both Japan and the U.S. as a critical step to bolster regional security amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

Blinken’s trip will conclude in Paris, where he will meet with French officials to discuss pressing global issues, particularly developments in the Middle East and ongoing European security concerns, including the situation in Ukraine. The visit will serve as a reminder of the strong transatlantic partnership as the U.S. and France continue to navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape.