President Donald Trump is set to lay out on Monday a new National Security Strategy built upon his trademark “America First” slogan, which is expected to have economic security at its core. The US leader, who has dismantled the legacy of Barack Obama on issues ranging from climate change to free trade, and isolated Washington on the world stage, will unveil what is being billed as a comprehensive vision for tackling America’s complex security challenges.
The new document, released periodically by the presidency, “affirms the belief that America’s economic security is national security,” an administration official said. It also reflects a determination to push for balance in US economic relations with the rest of the world, especially China. “The greatest weapon we have is our strong GDP,” the official said, citing Defense Secretary Jim Mattis. Mr Trump has taken an aggressive stance on trade. He vows to reduce bilateral trade deficits, particularly with China, and has said he wants to level the playing field for American companies.
