President dodges talk over human rights abuse

US president Donald Trump has prioritised strategic interests over human rights as his lengthy Asia trip comes down to its final days, declining to shine a spotlight on the violent drug war overseen by his Philippine host.

Mr Trump repeatedly praised Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte, departing from his predecessors by avoiding discussion over human rights abuses while overseas.

Mr Duterte has overseen a bloody drug war that has featured extra judicial killings. He has even boasted about killing people with his own hands.

The US president said he and Mr Duterte have “had a great relationship”.

The White House later said the two leaders discussed the Islamic State, illegal drugs and trade during their 40-minute meeting. Spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said human rights came up “briefly” in the context of the Philippines’ fight against illegal drugs. She did not say if Trump was critical of mr du te rte’ s program.