Biden promises a better economic relationship with Asia, but he’s specifically avoiding a trade deal

By JOSH BOAK
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States and 13 partners in the Indo-Pacific region are announcing a signed deal on supply chains and agreements in principle on climate and anti-corruption efforts. It’s part of something called the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, with talks taking place this week in San Francisco at a regional summit of leaders. On trade, there will be some language on agriculture and expanding trade relationships. But the major issues of labor, environmental standards and rules for digital companies are still being negotiated. President Joe Biden is nurturing economic ties with the U.S. partners but he’s not signing any trade deals. “Framework” is the operative word. It’s a label that allows Biden to bypass Congress in reaching these agreements.