The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on February 26, 2025, to evaluate the missed milestones and unseized opportunities in the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region over the past four years, particularly under the Trump administration. The meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining strong alliances with South Korea, Japan, and regional partners like Quad and ASEAN in the face of ongoing threats from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and North Korea.

Chairwoman Kim emphasized the necessity of collaboration among allies, stating that despite political changes, the U.S. must remain committed to these vital partnerships. She pointed out that the U.S. is perceived as the partner of choice in the region, but warned that without substantial economic incentives, allies risk becoming overly dependent on China. The discussion underscored the potential of the Pacific Economic Framework to enhance economic engagement with EAP nations.

Human rights issues were also a focal point, with Chairwoman Kim condemning the CCP's abuses in Xinjiang and the repression of pro-democracy activists globally. She stressed that the U.S. must prioritize human rights in its foreign policy to ensure a safer and more prosperous nation.

Ranking Member Ami Berra echoed Kim's sentiments, highlighting the bipartisan nature of the committee's work on EAP issues. He noted the progress made in trilateral relations among the U.S., Japan, and Australia, and the importance of maintaining these ties regardless of political shifts. Berra also discussed the need for the U.S. to engage economically in the region, particularly through trade agreements and development programs.

The meeting featured a panel of distinguished witnesses, including experts from the American Enterprise Institute and the Center for New American Security, who were invited to provide insights on strengthening U.S. policies in the EAP region. The committee members expressed a commitment to working together to advance U.S. interests and enhance partnerships in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for the U.S. to remain actively engaged in the EAP region, focusing on economic partnerships, human rights advocacy, and the strengthening of alliances to counter the influence of China and North Korea. The committee plans to continue its work in these areas, emphasizing a bipartisan approach to foreign policy in the region.