U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met counterparts in Southeast Asia on Thursday during his first visit to Asia since taking office, reassuring them it is a priority for Washington despite President Donald Trump's tariff offensive.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met counterparts in Southeast Asia during his first visit to the region since taking office.

Sweeping tariffs set to be imposed by President Donald Trump next month may overshadow his top diplomat’s first official trip to Asia

A day later, Trump said the U.S. will impose 50% tariffs on copper, as well as 200% tariffs on pharmaceuticals. Trade deals could be coming. Japan’s top trade negotiator, for example, said July 8 that talks with the U.

President Trump said the U.S. will impose steep levies on imports from 20 countries starting next month, raising pressure on trading partners.