He has already ruled out joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement currently under negotiation, as well as the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership with Europe, and he is threatening to pull out of the North American Free Trade Agreement (Nafta). “Timing is more important here, given the economic pressure on South Korea from Beijing and the challenges of the North Korea conflict,” Bremmer said. Japan and South Korea have called for a resolute response and solidarity among allies in the wake of the latest missile test. Four US Thaad missile launchers are expected to arrive in South Korea next week to add to its existing missile defences. It stands to benefit North Korea, which seeks to drive a wedge between the US and [South Korea],” Rapp-Hooper said.

Source: The Guardian September 03, 2017 06:00 UTC