The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on February 26, 2025, to evaluate the past four years of U.S. engagement in the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region, particularly under the Trump administration. The meeting highlighted both achievements and missed opportunities in addressing the growing influence of China.

Key discussions centered on the consistency of U.S. strategy in Asia across different administrations, with a focus on strengthening alliances with countries like Japan, India, Australia, and South Korea. However, concerns were raised about the U.S.'s inconsistent engagement with Southeast Asian nations, which have expressed disappointment over the lack of a cohesive economic vision from Washington.

Witnesses proposed several strategic initiatives for the Trump administration to consider moving forward. These included establishing an allied defense arsenal to enhance military cooperation, creating a Taiwan contact group to bolster Taiwan's defenses, and pursuing a trade deal with the Philippines to solidify U.S. influence in the region. Additionally, there was a call for increased attention to Indonesia, viewed as a potential counterweight to China's regional dominance.

The meeting also addressed significant risks, such as the potential for South Korean nuclear proliferation and the need for the U.S. to avoid ceding influence to China. Witnesses emphasized the importance of proactive engagement and credible deterrence to counter Chinese assertiveness, particularly regarding Taiwan and the South China Sea.

In conclusion, the committee underscored the necessity for a robust U.S. presence in the Indo-Pacific to ensure regional security and prosperity. The discussions reflected a bipartisan commitment to reevaluating U.S. strategies in the region, aiming to enhance partnerships and address the challenges posed by China's growing influence. The committee looks forward to further deliberations on these critical issues.