In just one year, US President Donald Trump has changed the way Asia looks at the United States.
The cornerstones of American power in Asia, Japan, Australia and South Korea, all lost a little faith in their longtime close ally and protector in 2017, according to Gallup polling.
No military assets have been withdrawn, no embassies closed, but the lack of interest expressed by a US administration focused on "America First" has deeply shaken its status in the region.
"Nowadays when we attend international conferences (around Asia), nobody really talks about the United States anymore ... it's a little bit strange," Chisuke Masuo, associate professor at Kyushu University's Graduate School of Social and Cultural Studies, told CNN.
Uncertainty about America's commitment to the region has prompted local leaders to strengthen ties with each other, to prepare for the day when the US no longer has their backs.
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WNU Editor: President Obama's "pivot" to Asia did not happen. And as for President Trump .... he is focused on North Korea, but he is more focused on Asian trade and economic issues that would benefit the U.S.. Is this wrong? Of course not. No one will be critical of the U.S. President if he wants the best for his citizens .... and it will not alienate U.S. allies in Asia. And as for China winning the region in Asia .... that is far from becoming a reality. We in the West do not truly understand the growing resentment that is now happening in Asia towards China. This does not only include boundary issues, but also the economic and political interference that China is now imposing on its neighbors.
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