China Relieved U.S. Focus Shifted to Middle East, Says Lowy Institute’s Lemahieu

The transcript discusses the US-China phase one trade agreement, highlighting China's commitments to purchase $200 billion in US imports and address US grievances on technology transfer and intellectual property. It also covers the US's strategic pivot to the Middle East, including heightened tensions with Iran and the implications for global relations. The discussion touches on the unpredictability of US actions and how China and Russia might leverage the situation to their advantage.

In what way does the speaker suggest that Donald Trump is using the agreement as a political strategy?

What implications does the speaker suggest the US's focus on the Middle East has for its relationship with China?