Fri Jul 11 06:04:20 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, written from an Indian perspective, suitable for “The Hindu”:
**Rubio and Wang Meet Amid Tariff Tensions at ASEAN Summit**
**KUALA LUMPUR, July 11, 2025** – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a “positive” meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, amidst rising anxieties over US tariffs impacting Asian economies, particularly ASEAN nations. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, marks the first face-to-face encounter between the two officials since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
While Rubio characterized the hour-long talks as “constructive” and not a “negotiation,” the shadow of US tariffs loomed large. Trump has threatened punitive duties on over 20 countries, many in Asia, if trade deals aren’t struck by August 1.
ASEAN has expressed “concern” over tariffs, which it described as “counterproductive” and a threat to regional growth. Countries like Japan and South Korea, typically strong US allies, also face substantial levies.
The meeting highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and China, fueled by disputes over trade, Taiwan, and regional influence. Wang Yi accused the US of undermining the free trade system and depriving countries of their legitimate development rights through the imposition of high tariffs.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim voiced concerns that tariffs are becoming “sharpened instruments of geopolitical rivalry.”
The potential meeting between President Trump and President Xi Jinping was also discussed, with Rubio expressing confidence it would occur.
The developments are being closely watched in India, with analysts fearing a potential ripple effect on the Indian economy, particularly if escalating trade disputes disrupt regional supply chains. The situation also places India in a delicate position, balancing its strategic partnership with the US against its economic ties with China and its commitment to regional stability within ASEAN.
The outcome of the US’s tariff policies and its engagement with China will undoubtedly have significant implications for India’s trade strategy and its role in the evolving geopolitical landscape of Asia.
First Piper 