WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is poised to initiate formal international discussions this week, marked by Marco Rubio’s anticipated confirmation as Secretary of State. U.S. officials indicate that Rubio will hold meetings with the foreign ministers from India, Japan, and Australia, collectively known as the Quad, an essential element of U.S. strategy aimed at countering the growing influence and assertiveness of China in the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative was initially promoted by Trump during his first term but has gained prominence under the leadership of President Joe Biden.

Rubio is expected to receive Senate confirmation for the top diplomatic position on Monday, coinciding with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump for his second term. His inaugural meetings, scheduled for Tuesday, will include separate discussions with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, all of whom will be present for Trump’s inauguration.

Officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, noted that Rubio’s confirmation had not yet taken place at the time of their statements. In contrast, Biden and outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken have emphasized their efforts to strengthen alliances with global partners after taking over from Trump in 2021, who was known for his skepticism towards alliances, including NATO and various defense collaborations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Blinken remarked on the challenges faced when they assumed office, noting, “When we came in, we inherited partnerships and alliances that were seriously frayed.” In September, leaders from the Quad nations met with Biden near Wilmington, Delaware, where they resolved to enhance cooperation among their coast guards to boost interoperability and operational capabilities in the region, with personnel from India, Japan, and Australia sailing alongside the U.S. Navy.

The increasing assertiveness of China continues to be a primary concern for all four nations, and the rivalry between the U.S. and China is predicted to intensify following Trump’s reinstatement. In a notable diplomatic move, Beijing sent Vice President Han Zheng to the inauguration after Trump extended an invitation to Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Historically, tariffs on Chinese imports were a critical aspect of Trump’s trade policy during his first term, and he has indicated plans to widen and reinforce these tariffs during his upcoming term.

Additionally, Trump spoke with Xi Jinping via phone to discuss key topics such as trade, fentanyl, and TikTok, later posting on social media that the two agreed to strive for creating a safer and more peaceful world. Many of Trump’s nominees for important cabinet roles are known for their hardline stance on China, Rubio included. During his confirmation hearing, Rubio described China as “the most potent, dangerous and near-peer adversary this nation has ever confronted.”