Congress assesses US defense partnerships with Japan and Korea for tech advancements
February 26, 2025 | Foreign Affairs: House Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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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 during the Trump administration. The meeting focused on strengthening defense capabilities, enhancing economic ties, and countering China's influence in the region.
The session began with discussions on the importance of U.S. engagement in the EAP region to build stronger relationships with allies such as South Korea and Japan. Members highlighted recent initiatives by these countries to support the U.S. defense industrial base, including Korea's Hanwha Systems acquiring Philly Shipyards and Japan's substantial investment in emerging technologies. The conversation emphasized the need for collaborations that align with U.S. security interests while maintaining American innovation and competitiveness.
Mr. Singleton addressed the need for the Trump administration to strengthen the defense industrial base through incentivization and deregulation. He pointed out the importance of expanding mineral stockpiles and developing a skilled workforce for critical industries. The discussion also touched on co-development opportunities with allies, such as fighter jets with India and missile defense systems with Japan.
Economic engagement was another key topic, with members discussing the U.S. Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and its limitations regarding market access for ASEAN partners. Mr. Cooper suggested that the Trump administration should pursue bilateral arrangements, particularly with the Philippines, to connect economic and strategic interests. Mr. Fontaine noted the potential for sectoral agreements in digital trade and critical minerals, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to re-engage in free trade agreements.
The committee also addressed the growing influence of China in the Pacific Islands, expressing concern over recent elections and the potential for Beijing to gain a foothold in the region. Members called for a sustained U.S. focus on the Pacific Islands, advocating for collaboration with allies like Australia and New Zealand to counter Chinese influence through a different model of engagement that respects sovereignty and promotes long-term partnerships.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency for the Trump administration to capitalize on defense and economic opportunities in the EAP region while addressing the challenges posed by China's expanding influence. The committee members emphasized the need for a strategic approach that fosters collaboration with allies and enhances U.S. presence in the region.
The session began with discussions on the importance of U.S. engagement in the EAP region to build stronger relationships with allies such as South Korea and Japan. Members highlighted recent initiatives by these countries to support the U.S. defense industrial base, including Korea's Hanwha Systems acquiring Philly Shipyards and Japan's substantial investment in emerging technologies. The conversation emphasized the need for collaborations that align with U.S. security interests while maintaining American innovation and competitiveness.
Mr. Singleton addressed the need for the Trump administration to strengthen the defense industrial base through incentivization and deregulation. He pointed out the importance of expanding mineral stockpiles and developing a skilled workforce for critical industries. The discussion also touched on co-development opportunities with allies, such as fighter jets with India and missile defense systems with Japan.
Economic engagement was another key topic, with members discussing the U.S. Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and its limitations regarding market access for ASEAN partners. Mr. Cooper suggested that the Trump administration should pursue bilateral arrangements, particularly with the Philippines, to connect economic and strategic interests. Mr. Fontaine noted the potential for sectoral agreements in digital trade and critical minerals, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to re-engage in free trade agreements.
The committee also addressed the growing influence of China in the Pacific Islands, expressing concern over recent elections and the potential for Beijing to gain a foothold in the region. Members called for a sustained U.S. focus on the Pacific Islands, advocating for collaboration with allies like Australia and New Zealand to counter Chinese influence through a different model of engagement that respects sovereignty and promotes long-term partnerships.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency for the Trump administration to capitalize on defense and economic opportunities in the EAP region while addressing the challenges posed by China's expanding influence. The committee members emphasized the need for a strategic approach that fosters collaboration with allies and enhances U.S. presence in the region.
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