The Trump Administration has broken with the tradition of pursuing its national interests in tandem with an emphasis on alliances and values. Southeast Asian countries will respond accordingly.
While overland cables are just as important, the geographic flexibility offered by subsea cables will have a catalytic impact on regional energy transition by increasing the numbers of energy buyers and sellers.
Membership of Asean brings Timor-Leste political visibility and economic opportunity, but also new exposure to disputes in a grouping where several members are wrestling with democratic backsliding.