Why Trump should beware Asian hospitality
During his trip to the Middle East a few months ago, President Trump was received by Saudi Arabia in a “kingly” fashion. Trump seemed to have enjoyed such a flattering reception enormously.
Fast track to Sunday and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe effusively welcomed Trump by spending half a day playing golf with the president before treating him to a sumptuous traditional Japanese dinner.
No shop talk – only play.
This seems to have succeeded, Trump revealed on Sunday night. “The relationship is really extraordinary. We like each other, and our countries like each other. And I don’t think we’ve ever been closer to Japan than we are right now.”
However, President Trump should know that hospitality is a speciality of Asians.
The US leader should be careful not to get carried away by the cordial and lavish receptions he receives in this region, in case he leaves without achieving any of the important goals of his Asia mission.
Chavalit Wannawijitr
Chiang Mai
