U.S.'s Dominant Role at APEC Amid Leaders' Schedule Shuffle

The U.S. demonstrated a robust presence at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in South Korea, according to Casey Mace, the U.S. Senior Official to APEC. His remarks follow discussions around the early departure of President Donald Trump, who returned to the U.S. before the start of the leaders' summit.

Despite Trump's absence, which was due to scheduling conflicts, the U.S. retained a significant role in the forum's discussions. The day prior to leaving South Korea, Trump held crucial trade talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi Jinping is expected to participate in the forum until its conclusion.

Upon his return to Washington, President Trump, alongside First Lady Melania Trump, hosted the White House's annual Halloween celebration. This schedule reflects the juggling of international diplomacy with domestic commitments by the U.S. administration.