'How You Would Approach ASEAN As A Whole?': Tammy Duckworth Questions Rubio At Confirmation Hearing

At his confirmation hearing, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), President-elect Trump's nominee for Secretary of State, took questions from Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).
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[@JohnDoe-yh9qn]

This is how a Confirmation Hearing or inquiries should be conducted. Not rhetorics or narratives. Kudos to you both!

[@Monty2289]

That's because SECDEF isn't a hot cabinet pic. If anything we should be worried that he got a complete non-contentious vote and that he'd once been a candidate. Rubio is definitely not a Trump pic. He's a gimmie most likely for certain Republican senators who would not endorse Trump's other pics. But if EVERY single senator agreed with bringing him in that's a red flag imo

[@fun2badult]

Not a big fan of Marco but gotta admit he is knowledgeable and that having served as a senator for many years helped him to be aware

[@davidwong5197]

Gotta wait and see. His ASEAN policy is a departure from traditional US policy. US wants country to pick sides or else. There was a bill that will sanction any country that will not sifr with US. Thank god that bill died

[@Alex-xh9kv]

​@@davidwong5197, Rubio stated that such a policy would be counterproductive to US interests during the clip.

[@davidwong5197]

@ Yes, ASEAN wants to stay neutral but US policy has ALways been pick a side. He is right but is he going to do what he said. US has always want to boss people around, The S African FM said it to Blinken;s face. US always come in and tell us to do this or else. Right now he is saying all the right thing. He told China US will not support Taiwan indepenence, He was sanctioned by China for advocating Taiwan independence, Is this a differennt Rubio? I'll wait and see.

[@user-ki1bk5fi8b]

con man like trump

[@paintreartis9902]

He seems to be more diplomatic than Trump is.

[@janicknorman8778]

I'm Indonesian (ASEAN members) and Marco Rubio knows exactly what he's talking about.

[@tangankaki1133]

Exactly! As a Malaysian, I appreciated his knowledge about ASEAN & how he spoke about pragmatic reality etc. Oh ya, he's already confirmed as Secretary of State.

[@nfuryboss]

Grown up in SE Asia, I agreed with Rubio statement.

[@davidwong5197]

@ Let's wait and see. Talk is cheap and he is a neo-con. There are a lot of muslim countries in ASEAN and he is not exactly pro muslim

[@tangankaki1133]

@davidwong5197 thanks dude for pointing that out!

[@abelcallejo3990]

From the Philippines here. Rubio's idea would work. They should not meddle in ASEAN. ASEAN members only want supportive nurturing from both US and China. We don't really want to pick sides as long as nobody is hostile.

[@rickmaramis8024]

I am glad that Sen. Tammy Duckworth has put the spotlight on ASEAN (as an economic, social and political body essentially) which I hope will become an important voice in how Southeast Asian countries in particular views American, European, African, Central Asian policy decisions affecting ASEAN members and how they respond to it. I agree with Sen. Marco Rubio (now confirmed as Secretary of State) that ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations - which was established in 1967 in Bangkok Thailand with Founding Fathers - Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand) will have disagreements within its membership to reach unanimity on certain economic, social and political issues. That said, ASEAN has grown to 10 membership nations and I believe it is still developing a sense of identity and what they stand for (as witnessed by their motto, "One Vision, One Identity, One Community").The addition of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Brunei Darussalam, Myanmar of which many amongst them are still in the midst of growing their respective economies will of course need time to adapt to becoming an ASEAN bloc in the world's perspective. The future potential of ASEAN is however enormous. It must be noted that many world banks and trusted financial institutions (i.e. World Bank, McKinsey, Asian Development Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers etc) have predicted that by 2050 the world's largest economies will be China, India, USA and Indonesia. So ASEAN in the future will have a seat at the table of the developed countries in determining the direction of the world's economy.

[@Zero_Tester]

It harder for Malaysia ans Philippine because Phillipine used Sulu to direct their claim for Malaysian state like Sabah as their leverage

[@cristiano7ronaldoTHEGOAT]

​@@Zero_Tester Malaysia and the Philippines share a friendly relationship without any significant conflicts. When it comes to Sabah, the majority of Filipinos are not particularly concerned about it; their focus is more on the West Philippine Sea.

[@livindaye]

11, dude... timor leste already joined a while ago.

[@rickmaramis8024]

@livindaye *Hey dude they've been accepted as the 11th member of ASEAN "in principle" but have not attained "full membership" status yet.* If you have actually followed the process of Timor Leste acquiring full membership in ASEAN you would know that in the 40th and 41st ASEAN SUMMIT 2022 held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia ASEAN accepted the _Accession of Timor Leste "in principle" to be its 11th member. So, they have NOT yet attained "full membership"._ (based on document produced in the ASEAN SUMMIT 2022 entitled ASEAN LEADERS' STATEMENT ON THE APPLICATION OF TIMOR-LESTE FOR ASEAN MEMBERSHIP). _Timor Leste was granted Observer Status and allowed to attend ASEAN meetings. In addition, ASEAN would formalize an objective criteria-based Roadmap for Timor-Leste's full membership as described in the statement._ In the 42nd and 43rd ASEAN SUMMIT 2023 in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia, Indonesian _President Joko Widodo encouraged ASEAN member states and external partners to help Timor-Leste fulfill the criteria stipulated in the Roadmap to become a full member._ In the 44th and 45th ASEAN SUMMIT 2024 in Vientiane, Lao PDR, as it concerns TIMOR LESTE’S FULL MEMBERSHIP IN ASEAN, _ASEAN continued to support and stressed the need for Timor-Leste to implement the objective and criteria-based Roadmap for Timor-Leste’s Full Membership in ASEAN._ (based on the document produced in the CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT OF THE 44TH and 45TH ASEAN SUMMIT IN VIENTIANE, LAO PDR, 9 OCTOBER 2024). In the Malaysian newspaper Bernama dated January 19th 2025 entitled "ASEAN Foreign Ministers Express Commitment for Timor-Leste's Full Membership". The ASEAN SUMMIT 2025 will be held in Malaysia in August 2025 so we shall hopefully see Timor-Leste officially becoming the 11th Full Member of ASEAN. *So there you go DUDE... Timor-Leste is NOT YET A FULL MEMBER of ASEAN... That said, they should officially become an ASEAN member some time in 2025 according to reports.*

[@wenderis]

So far, Prabowo and his FM are not that interested on ASEAN centrality and the platform it gives to Indonesia's FP. Without Indonesia enganging actively, I'm not sure ASEAN can be more of a cohesive partner to Rubio. China who has a lot more experince on dealing with ASEAN countries knows this and prefer to deal with them bilaterally. If Malaysia succeed in this year leadership of ASEAN, maybe, just maybe, Indonesia can be as active in ASEAN as they used to be.

[@ptg01]

He is SPOT ON regarding ASEAN countries and their relationship with China.. So happy he was nominated and CONFIRMED yesterday ! So much more coherent and knowledgeable than say Hegseth for sure..

[@Monty2289]

Hegseth isn't a politician like this guy has been for 20 years. Also ASEAN has absolutely nothing to do with our military and therefore jack shit to do with SECDEF. I can't tell honestly if this is an NPC style comment. The reason you're not raising hell over it despite it being a Trump cabinet conformation is because the Dems and the media hasn't signaled for you to be mad about it.

[@RafaelAlves-vd7et]

She is a true senator . Great politician . Marco also did well.

[@petemorbius3936]

agree

[@LokiTheGodofMischief]

I like when our politicians look at each other as part of the same team and will help each other even id they are from diff parties

[@gojosatoruzenka2511]

@@LokiTheGodofMischiefYup and not that Pete Hegseth. Hegseth is trash!

[@nfuryboss]

Great reply by Rubio. The thing is most ASEAN nations used to be under threat by communism and insurgency spreading in their region during the 60s-80s, which are funded mostly by CCP. They are well-aware that now China's economic coercion and hegemony have now replaced communist ideology threat nstead and the US would be a useful counterweight tool that they can leveraged against China if the bullying gets too heated up. One thing in favor for the US is that we are their border neighbors and so they aren't afraid of the US coming to take over their water ways and land like China's nine-dashlines or building a dams to control their water sources.

[@Jo-un6es]

The one nominee I'm not worried about compared to the others.

[@tangankaki1133]

Indeed

[@davidwong5197]

I do. He was a pro war nro con. He advocated invading Venezula and Cuba. He also adocated Taiwan independence which means war. Let's wait and see.

[@tangankaki1133]

@@davidwong5197 oh, i dont know about that. Shit, I thought he was okay, hahaha

[@davidwong5197]

@ Maybe he changed under Trump. Let's not judge. Just wait and see.

[@Stravanda]

@@davidwong5197 What? Can you show me the public record of him saying the US should invade Venezuela or Cuba or for Taiwan independence. Pretty sure that's not a thing.

[@gauravtiwari6547]

I am from singapore, he knows what he is talking about.

[@larryleathersshow]

Duckworth's discovery definitely helped me to appreciate Marco Rubio's expertise.

[@sann5146]

Discovery?

[@larryleathersshow]

@@sann5146 By discovery, I simply mean a "strategic prompting" that brought forth further intelligence about Senator Rubio's knowledge to all, particularly about relationships with countries associated with ASEAN.

[@brianjimenez143]

As a democrat I’m happy Rubio is in this position.

[@PershingOfficial]

💯

[@mgoblue0970]

As a democrat, you should be ashamed of yourself... look at how Kamala handled international relationships. Biden is purported to be a foreign policy hawk (the very reason why Obama selected him as VP) and is clearly a failure at foreign policy.

[@user-ki1bk5fi8b]

racist cuban

[@RayCromwell]

The problem is, many of Trump's other nominees are clowns. Hegseth knows nothing of foreign policy, probably can't find Laos on a map, doesn't even know who's in ASEAN. Trump was trying to lecture reporters that Spain is a BRICS nation, which it IS NOT. Linda McMahon is a clown and being put in charge of the Dept of Education, it's straight out of the movie Idiocracy with the WWE running the government, and so on. I'm glad Rubio is in this position, but I fear the DoD is going to be a mess with Hegseth, and Dunning-Kruger master "Elon" who has zero experience in military or defense, dictating what weapons to buy.

[@CoffeBuz]

Im a Thai and I agree with both of them. There's hope yet for this administration.

[@Immortal_0715]

I agree, am also Thai and I think we have mix of all types of business due to being mostly a vacation destination.

[@user-ki1bk5fi8b]

i dont i am indian

[@johnvista2858]

As long as China and Russia is the same everything is just going to get worst.

[@santoshrathod123]

Both Tammy Duckworth and Rubio are great senators and Secretary of States.

[@NewHorizon89]

No she is not. Tammy is a terrible senator.

[@user-ki1bk5fi8b]

BS!!!

[@RobertBaricanleynes]

THANKS AGAIN FOR BEING KIND TOWARDS PEOPLE 🎉

[@Joe.1776_]

The amount of joy it gives me to see a Republican and a Democrat be respectful towards one another is unfathomable 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸

[@shaider1982]

As someone from South East Asia, it's nice he knows us unlike the other guy who said Japan and SK is part of it.

[@stephenhan9680]

That other guy’s the Secretary of Defence now. Lol

[@pleongv1]

He is supporter to Isreal genocide

[@IlCaroSassone]

ASEAN is so vital to our interests. Shocking it’s not better known!

[@danielteng1972]

As a bloc, ASEAN does have it's struggles. Most of the countries deal with really bad corruption issues, which limit development. Further, the 10 nations have vastly differently standards of living/wealth, when you compare Singapore to Laos etc. But I think endemic corruption and mismanagement will always be a big reason why it's not quite fulfilling its potential.

[@tangankaki1133]

​@@danielteng1972I agreed with your POV. As a Malaysian, I would reckon that we in ASEAN must tackle our own backyard problems by not over-depending with other so-called Super-Powers' Countries.

[@redcoltken]

We americans are not informed

[@Zero_Tester]

​@@redcoltkenYou guys need to do more on Malaysia and Indonesia,both is very heavy leaning toward China and Russia due to USA involvement with Israel lol

[@tangankaki1133]

@@Zero_Tester not just Israel, USA meddled with too many internal problems of other countries & joined the evil forces of that countries to kill millions of innocent civilians. Unlike China (even though they are not perfect), they came with intention to do businesses. So that's the difference.

[@DrPiangdin]

Thank you Senator Duckworth for raising such compelling issues among ASEAN members.

[@kerjulon]

At last, an American who knows what and how geopolitics and foreign relations works. Good answers and explanation Rubio.

[@ZakiHaider-y9o]

Then learn that Asia is not America

[@iskhrm1688]

Asean citizen here (Malaysia). Sen. Rubio speaks with a very cool head & sounds like a peacemaker to me.

[@ArmyMan2303-n3d]

peacemaker ? jgn bergurau dah

[@davidwong5197]

No he is a pro war neocon. But people can change

[@ianlee2855]

Trust me...they are not a peacemaker! They will create havoc here bec where there is peace, there is $$$ to be made. ie create instability here.

[@pleongv1]

Supporter of Palestine genocide. A peacekeeper 🤦‍♂️

[@FaisalMohdNoordin]

This guy is pro Israel but on the other hand, at least he knows us 😂

[@keoki777]

99 to 0 was his confirm voting result.

[@rosihantu1]

Which means he is a terrible candidate

[@keoki777]

@rosihantu1 are you joking?

[@Z_RE0]

@@rosihantu1 you would be the best

[@rosihantu1]

@@Z_RE0 I would definitely be more neutral towards Israel instead of a clapping seal.

[@Z_RE0]

@@rosihantu1 huh... Israel? 7% of congress really freak you out that much?

[@tliani1494]

Thank you for bringing "Myanmar" to the hearing. Myanmar people are at war and suffering the consequences every day.

[@levi6270]

Rubio would make an excellent Secretary of State. Hopefully, Trump doesn’t fire him

[@adamdaniel8909]

i mean during his first term... he change a lot of people in his cabinet...

[@levi6270]

@ yup

[@ptg01]

Agree... just have to ignore all the name calling (Little Marco) that still continue... Oh well, nobody is perfect I suppose.

[@vn10tv9]

Your mom

[@Talkwithtina808]

This guy get a lot of praise ❤

[@dimasprimacahyadi9136]

Marco really show he has the bipartisan charm and statesmanship needed for future US leadership. So far he is the best candidate for this position.

[@kateleee23]

I don’t agree with Rubio on virtually anything politically (at least domestically), but I’m actually okay with him being Sec. of State.

[@phav1832]

I'm a big fan of Marco. He sees things as they really are.

[@duncankowable]

Senator, I'm Singaporean.

[@JC-kz3ut]

Refreshing to hear a confirmation where the member knows what they're talking about, and the nominee gives intelligent responses. Her Hegseth hearing was a fucking nightmare.

[@ca.lunaaa]

Unlike Hegseth Rubio actually knows his stuff, hopefully he upholds the constitution and chooses what’s right for the American people instead of putting delusion and personal political agendas first.

[@BobTheBuilder-ny5wj]

@@ca.lunaaa Rubio had a chance to look it up. He knew she was going to ask it obviously. but Rubio is a good guy.

[@Violry]

do you expect a defense secretary to know an economic alliance? jeez

[@adamdaniel8909]

@@BobTheBuilder-ny5wj he was literally in the Select Committee on Intelligence and in Foreign Relations... even if he did not have time to "look it up", he would know or even have some understanding of it...

[@timtam003]

​@@Violrywe have to be respectful in our comments - so I'll just point you to a couple of things. Pretend you're SECDEF and look up "Straits of Malacca" and "South China Sea". See if there are military or defence concerns there.

[@BobTheBuilder-ny5wj]

@ just having people that will put America first will be a huge improvement. I think Pete will be just fine.

[@InderdeepGill-co2tc]

At least he is more well-informed than Hegseth (couldn’t even name a single ASEAN country)

[@sergiopascale3487]

They should have asked Hegseth what's his Top 10 favorite wine, he should have gotten the confirmation soon enough🤣😂

[@morpiano78]

2 different parties getting along? This is different for sure. I am very impressed by Se. Rubio's responses.

[@sonaterese799]

Watched his first day in his new position . The State Department employees were so thrilled at his promotion

[@pengseahang946]

Ok . Confirmed 👍😁

[@UPynyarLawka]

Thank Fobres Breaking News video so much ,I'm ASEAN Myanmar.

[@TT-hg9tp]

Sen Tammy is sharp and great role model. Thanks for mentioning asean and the relationship between Thailand and US.

[@cdkika]

I’m proud to be a Hispanic and Cuban after hearing Rubio speak.

[@hankbrock8609]

Should be proud before you heard him speak.

[@cdkika]

@ I’m very proud of my heritage. Came to this country more than 40 years ago and to see another Cuban succeed like Marco makes you proud of where we came from and what you can accomplish in this wonderful country.

[@hankbrock8609]

​@@cdkika Absolutely! We love America! I know-- I was just giving you a hard time because I love the Latino culture and people.

[@franktoh3041]

Make Rubio the Cuban president.

[@krischan22]

wow. a very informative confirmation hearing.

[@vannakchhay3366]

Great to hearing your good sound for focusing on the Asian nations that are suffering by dictatorships

[@f50koenigg]

Rubio definitely is fit for this position.

[@ronaldgabriel9631]

hey we got the same profile picture. 😂

[@f50koenigg]

@ronaldgabriel9631 Nahh, I dont believe you 😂

[@brettbenson7690]

These are the two representatives I wanted for president the last two terms.

[@EdL-m3b]

South Korea too do not want to live in a sphere where China is a predominant power. The same would go for Japan.

[@HudaefCares]

"Everybody hates China" - All of China's neighbors basically lol

[@zenden9]

​​​@@HudaefCares lol.. typical fake response. One belt one road, Indonesia HSR? Malaysia and Indonesia both Muslim countries plus Brunei do not trust USA after the Palestine genocide. Thailand, Laos ,Vietnam and myanmar heavily depend on China. Singapore is neutral. This left Philippines alone.

[@zenden9]

Both countries still think their technology are above China... EV, AI, robotics, renewable energy, chip manufacturing.. who is leading? 😂 Both of them need to wake up from reality.

[@zenden9]

​@@HudaefCareseverybody? Thailand, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia , Brunei, Myanmar and Singapore, Vietnam? I am sure you know nothing of ASEAN..

[@zenden9]

South Korea and Japan still thinking they are leading power in Asia. 😂

[@amoghavarshanrupatunga1914]

Who is that beauty to the right of Marco Rubio ?

[@ZakiHaider-y9o]

His mom

[@KaraNara-h7j]

Rubio is competent and spot on

[@nexusdues3028]

Rubio is in his own league ❤

[@cismo88]

To confirm him for Secretary of State is one thing, while to see him carrying out his function as the Secretary of State in the escenario of today's world diplomacy is totally something else.

[@SharingChannel-qf2uf]

Agree indeed

[@LuckyDuckie115]

One of the best engagement/answers from a US politician regarding ASEAN

[@czbuddy15]

Thailand #1! 🇹🇭☝️

[@stormhawk31]

Secretary Rubio is going to be an EXCELLENT Secretary of State.

[@ctrob8225]

Love Marcos approach. Win them with diplomacy not threats of one or the other

[@Azure_Shwe]

Mr Rubio is a right person for this position. I m glad he is here. And Thank you so much Senator Tammy Duckworth.

[@Pnoydoc8]

ASEAN 10 members can be divided between the continentals : (Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand) and the maritime nations :(Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore & the Philippines). As Rubio pointed out, the countries in the mainland due to their proximity to China defers to Beijing's power. But due to its 9 dash line expansionist policies and territorial ambitions in the South China Sea, China's relationships with the maritime nations is more strained. This is especially true with the Philippines which has a mutual defense treaty with the US. During the first Trump administration , the then Sec State Mike Pompeo clarified that Philippine vessels (military or civilian) sailing in the SCS are covered by the MDT. China regularly tests the PHL -US resolve using nonlethal gray zone tactics (ramming, water cannons & blockade using their maritime militia). The SCS has large proven gas & oil reserves estimated in the 10 trillion USD range. Also 35% of global trade passes through this vital waterway. ASEAN has 700 million population and collectively has a GDP of about $ 4 trillion.

[@ScoobieDoo-zy1rh]

Yeah this makes sense

[@tangankaki1133]

Thanks for pointing that❤ Indeed, ASEAN is blessed Nations...Ameen!

[@davidwong5197]

Jusy a correction, nine dashline was started by ROC/Taiwan in the 1940s with US blessing. PRC just inherit the line not an expansion policy. ROC/Taiwan just completed a 60M port on Taipin Island in SCS

[@livindaye]

11, mate... timor leste just joined a while ago

[@logomo7]

The whole ASEAN welcomes China as they have been pivotal in helping them grow their economies, all except Philipines, which is up to today still behaving like a colonial state of USA. Blame it on the people lack of guts and slave mentality. They bow down to the US like the colonials they always are. Duterte almost revived their national identity back, alas the traitor Bong bong who still hold a lot US dollars assets is now an American puppet and now Philippines south china sea "battle" with China is just simply due to this. Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand are all looking at China as their new partner, who is proven to be more friendly and less oppressive than the US and the G7 bunch. They will never forget how the 98 crisis was engineered to steal from them.

[@devonex]

As someone who lives in that region, I like his views and approach on ASEAN. The bottom line is, we don’t want to pick a side. We want to be friends with everyone. Sure, there are disagreements between friends sometimes but we want to address the issue peacefully without hurting anyone or completely cutting our friends off.

[@zenden9]

US and their lackey will force u to pick a side.

[@lleange363]

Rubios deserves my trust

[@hlayinmon3666]

So far, Mr. Marco Rubio, is very impressive and respectable, and I, a humble citizen from Myanmar, have become a big fan of his. If he will promote PEACE and prosperity, as per the new President Mr. Trump's agenda, I very much look forward very eagerly to that PEACE and prosperity. Waiting to seeing that it happens soon too.

[@maximumkillmtg]

Can we have more of this kind of conversation?

[@kerdchokekengradomying9408]

Love Tammy plan and ideas ❤.

[@Uunartoq2018]

So proud of Khun Tammy ❤❤❤

[@edwin3813]

She knows ASEAN so well. She’s probably one of few smarter democrats there. And Rubio replied very articulately. Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia are very pro US.

[@s.b.ghazalli2658]

She was born in Thailand with a Thai mother and American dad. She lived there until age 16 when she left to go live in the US. Never mind her ASEAN knowledge now, she would have known about it at a very young age. I'm Malaysian (Thailand southern neighbour) and we learn it in school in general studies syllabus around age 10. 😅

[@BobTheBuilder-ny5wj]

@@s.b.ghazalli2658 sure a lot of people on here acting like they knew what it stood for, but in all reality, the majority of people in the US have no idea what that stood for. You do because you grew up knowing it thanks for your response.

[@tnoi]

Im not sure Malaysia is pro US

[@DaniloBarcenas-n1q]

She's of Asian descent but Rubio knows more about the importance of Asia the Philippines in particular as the US vanguard to China's growing aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

[@adamdaniel8909]

@@tnoi we're neutral... we're somewhat "friendly" with the Americans... not pro nor anti...

[@oneksalami7791]

That’s why Rubio is The Best.

[@Leon-fj5dt]

US presence is so important in stopping China influence in ASEAN. Keep the frontlines at China border. Someone from Singapore.

[@pleongv1]

China is important to stop colonialism of west and usa, singapore is a colony

[@Leon-fj5dt]

@pleongv1 Doesn't matter. Anyone in power is gonna colonise smaller nations anyway. The world only needs 1 hegemon and thats US. Two hegemons lead to war. A transition from one hegemon to another also leads to war. Hence, i prefer the current power structure, and China is threatening this stability. No need for anymore change. Thank you.

[@Leon-fj5dt]

@@pleongv1 You haven't learn enough from the spring & autumn period vs warring states?

[@zenden9]

​​@@Leon-fj5dtChina is not enemy of Singapore. We are neutral to both USA and China. To say try stopping China influence in ASEAN is something I don't agree. China is world second largest economy and near to ASEAN. Their prosperity will benefit ASEAN. Didn't u witness their HSR in Indonesia? Singapore and Malaysia are also interested in this HSR project that will benefit Singapore. This is something USA can't do.

[@AmirJabril]

@@pleongv1 China for over a thousand years turned much of southeast Asia into Vassal states. And just because some European western nations had their own nefarious schemes does not somehow change this history. In any case the US is not Europe. So explain why it shouldn't be trusted? And don't bring up Israel. Countless Muslim nations including my own still maintain relations with Israel to this day.

[@prachya007]

I’m proud of you Tammy!

[@charlescurtis6321]

This is how I want my Senators to be.

[@T121c43s]

👏👏👏🙌🙌 I agree with you Marco. #chinatroublemaker #notochina

[@ofeliaaquino5093]

GOD BLESS SEC MARCO RUBIO❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@ZakiHaider-y9o]

Asia doesn't want usa on its land

[@MetaView7]

Tammy Duckworth is bright and sharp.

[@xfirefox_x]

Rubio and Hegseth - A night and day.

[@davidwong5197]

I don'r really like Rubio but you are right. Hagseth is not qualified

[@Inside_Burma]

As a Burmese citizen and a member of ASEAN, it’s clear that the majority of us prefer to avoid a complicated relationship with China. I’m pleased to see that American leadership is now addressing this critical geopolitical issue with seriousness. Asia represents one of the most significant challenges America will face in the future if it fails to engage strategically, as was the case during Trump’s first tenure.

[@NoSignifica]

Tammy is half thai. I believe she understand all pictures.

[@therealkendallroy]

the only nominee here that's actually competent and qualified

[@davidwong5197]

We don't know about competent yet.

[@BillyChenX]

I voted for Harris and Biden before her, I'm ok with Rubio taking this role.

[@jilianemorales2074]

Wow, you voted for America’s destruction. So, you’re one we have to blame.

[@Randomturkey-e6z]

Don't approach ASEAN. Just give us bilateral free trade. Keep your politics, human rights and woke BS far away from us. Thank you.

[@raymondtay9442]

They say nice things during confirmation, but when they want you to confront China, they'll twist your arms behind the door or curtain, regardless of his name is Rubio or Blinky or Kamala. Remember Kamala's last trip to some ASEAN countries?

[@tedd7582]

Marco watched how Tammy ripped apart Hesgeth the day before and did more research and information about ASEAN, coz he knew she would ask similar questions.

[@okamsug]

Yup. That much is clear. Plus he memorized his talking points on this issue already. He said pretty much the same things on his other interviews.

[@SimonR141]

No, Marco has extensive knowledge of geopolitics and international policies. As a Thai (with Thailand being a part of ASEAN) and a former international relations student, I have been following his talking points on geopolitics since 2017. Seriously, I don't understand bias in American politic. If he just memorized, he would be cook if the senators ask other specific questions-unless you're going to tell me that the senators' questions are solely based on a script.

[@aeroAdvocate]

Rubio is a Senate bigshot and extremely smart. He doesn't need to do research. Also, the Senate is a good old bois club. He got confirmed 99:0 that NEVER happens anymore which shows he's in the good graces of all these Senators.

[@davidwong5197]

@@aeroAdvocate LOL how do you get knowledgable without research. Did he dream up the facts?

[@DjonnyKrajkatoaSimataIrMsc]

Rubio could not do it better

[@bounwang8896]

Out of all Trump cabinet pick this senator Marco Rubio is the most qualified for the position he is pick for. Kudos to Trump for this pick!

[@geraldineekhator5428]

This is the nicest I have ever seen this woman!

[@cashcash5995]

ASEAN does not need Rubio , his Hispanic brothers need him more .

[@boogermaiden]

Thank you Ma'am for putting a spotlight on ASEAN. Given that one of the biggest imports of healthcare workers are Filipinos - who are from an ASEAN country. And the Philippines being a key ally of the US in Asia-Pacific. Not a perfect relationship, and I don't always agree with the terms of how this relationship works, but it is what it is.

[@timothyjohncostelloe1104]

I think it is also safe to say that a majority of people in ASEAN also do not wish to be a vassal state of the USA. He is right to say that they should not insist on either/or because, given a real choice, the people would choose neither Washington nor Beijing, and would ask that both countries respect the independence & sovereignty of our nations, without trying to interfere in our internal affairs. Thank you.

[@Kahayuman]

Marco rubio will do good

[@ej_imperial]

Yes Promote DISABILITY than EID. It is paramount to help people with disability yet can be helpful in providing economic growth activity.

[@spak288]

I am from Cambodia, I would like to see the US take strict action against leaders who do not respect human rights and are not afraid to destroy democracy.

[@Go4Broke247]

Like Gaza?

[@Barocalypse]

Good Rubio

[@Jose-xh5qb]

It's comforting that despite Trump's insanity, there's at least 1 sane person in his cabinet, still complete trash, but sane.

[@georgeskalmetti808]

Indeed the honorable Mr Rubio seems very professional. Though in general terms and after listening other participants to this conversation, It`s not very clear if there is a will to work with China or instead work with ASIAN against China.

[@WowLuvya]

Well Senator Marco has certainly gotten a lot more knowledgeable since that water drinking episode. His approach of working with ASEAN where possible is absolutely necessary and not just to follow along but to lead. There are so many archaic policies still in place and ASEAN seems beholden to any one who will throw big sums of money at them but not necessarily for their best interests in long term, solid development in governmental policies to secure ASEAN PEOPLE as serious players. Senator Duckworth is impressive with her very specific knowledge of ASEAN. ASEAN has been needlessly ignored for too long by the US. There are many issues Thailand needs help with not just the displaced Uyghur people. There are large numbers of tribal people displaced for YEARS from MYANMAR into Thailand because of the horrendous developments of civil war funded by neighbours. India has not been empowered to help Myanmar to resolve conflicts. India has so many border issues on their own boundaries with the same GIANT and not in a position to help neighbours like MYANMAR. The overflow of civilians in all directions is awful to watch as their homes are terrorized with foreign weapons. Where is the US involvement in negotiations to end all this? There simply has been so little focus on serious issues in ASEAN. SENATOR DUCKWORTH pin points some of it. Some with serious issues of focus on race, religion and privilege that the country is practically bankrupt. The countries of the MIddle East recognize the value of cosmopolitanism and have abandoned monoculturalism and monoreligiousity. Perhaps some serious MAGA is needed in ASEAN. MAKE ASEAN GREAT AGAIN. MUTUAL BENEFIT AND EQUAL ACCESS.

[@estelanicolas7536]

😊the Philippines has a long history with the US. We shed our blood with America during World War 11. We have a Mutual Defense Treaty with the US. Right now China has been intimidating the Philippines claiming the South China as each own to the exclusion of other ASEAN countries. China has ignored the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. I hope Sec. Rubio can deter China’s expansionist moves in the region

[@pleongv1]

Puppet Ukraine spotted

[@pikachus5m166]

After the Spanish-Philippine anti-colonial war, the US betrayed the Philippines by colonising the entire country, resulting in over a million deaths. The first human zoo exhibits in New York, were Filipinos.

[@franktoh3041]

The Philippines is a semi- colony of the US

[@zenden9]

Pinoy must remember the betrayal of American during the liberation war against Spanish ... It shame you praise your colonial...

[@HồSơĐen247]

Actually, there are 11 nations in ASEAN, not 10

[@tangankaki1133]

Yes, the newly added Member is Timor Leste

[@arshad_nazran]

@@tangankaki1133its membership is still pending, while accepted “in principle” as of 24th January 2024. Timor Leste will nonetheless be an observer state in all ASEAN functions. We look forward to its absolute acceptance as full member very soon.

[@MrJames1034]

Not yet, Timor Leste's membership is still being processed

[@edphi]

He is a legit professional, MAGA or not. Perhaps the most professional of the whole cabinet.

[@mitsuwang]

Asean is pretty peace region, we respect big and small countries. We hate wars because we know the consequences

[@ChinitoLoquito474]

Proud of Marco Rubio, for fighting against communist regime

[@jakexake2940]

He missed the biggest US ally in ASEAN, the Philippines. It was once a US territory since 1898 and is now under attack by China.

[@francis802us]

The heck they care for the Philippines. Later, US will have its isolationist policy once again.

[@mmhcc9907]

Don't be so dramatic, China and Philippines have south china sea disputes. If you want to witness an "attack," look at the middle east.

[@Observesafety]

Thailand was the❤ first ally❤ of USA in asean before the Ph, that is the history, try to research so you can understand, but they dosen't have a treaty to protect each other in case of foriegn invasion. which the PH and USA have .

[@pokornycz]

Duckworth says at the beginning, "You've already spoken about the Philippines."

[@Goodluckbae-v6q]

@@francis802us Philippines and Americans have the same frame of government,expect the flip flopping on both sides deferent President deff policies.

[@rais1953]

Rubio has done his homework and has actually thought about what he's learned. US behaviour internationally doesn't generally reflect any very positive views within its ruling circles so it remains to be seen whether he can carry the Administration with him. But he's made a good start.

[@richardmckrell4899]

Rubio will be President someday.

[@ralph.aguinaldomd]

Marco is born to be Secretary of State. I don't like his pro-Zionist views, but he knows his stuff.

[@njswampfox474]

Guess she put hysterical ducky in a box for a change.

[@gojosatoruzenka2511]

what do you mean?

[@user-ve4ld2sq3n]

You could have nominated Rubio in 2016. Wow.

[@ZakiHaider-y9o]

Asean nations don't care about usa .

[@TuanNguyen-q8c]

True, we in asean want to work with both china and america and hot having to pick a side…

[@armswar]

Marco Rubio inadvertently sinks a fellow nominee by just showing up lol

[@JacksonWong-pw4zq]

As bad as blinken ,

[@yongjianyi3556]

Teachers should not repeat the same test questions😄