Part 2/10:
Bessant dismisses claims that the United States was "punked" or outmaneuvered by China during recent discussions at the China summit. Critics have argued that President Trump's negotiations were a letdown, suggesting that China exploited the situation. However, Bessant counters these narratives, emphasizing that the trip was a resounding success, highlighting multiple diplomatic and economic achievements across Southeast Asia, Japan, and Korea.
He points out that the trip led to trade deals, peace agreements with Thailand and Cambodia, and productive meetings with Asian leaders. The meeting between President Trump and China's President Xi Jinping, in particular, was characterized by mutual respect and indicated progress, contrary to some reports of failure or even capitulation.