Trump may see China as a rival in new security strategy

President Trump will introduce a new security strategy based on an "America first" policy, which may include China as a rival.

US President Donald Trump. Photo: Reuters.

The new national security strategy, based on an "America First" policy, is expected to be outlined in a speech by President Donald Trump on December 18, Reuters quoted two US officials as saying on December 16. The strategy will clearly state China as a rival.

The new strategy should not be seen as an effort to contain China, but rather as a clearer view of the challenges posed by Beijing, according to two officials.

President Trump has praised Chinese President Xi Jinping, but has also asked China to increase pressure on North Korea to force Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear and missile programs. Beijing also needs to change its trade practices to benefit Washington.

The strategy, still in draft, also reverses former President Barack Obama's September 2016 declaration that climate change is a security threat.

US National Security Adviser HR McMaster said on December 12 that officials in the Trump administration had been preparing for this document for months. The new strategy focuses on four main principles: protecting the US homeland, enhancing US economic prosperity and security, strengthening the military and promoting US influence.

According to VNE