Congressman highlights importance of foreign aid amid declining US-China relations

The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on April 9, 2025, to discuss the implications of current foreign policy under the Biden administration, particularly focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and their impact on international relations, especially concerning China.

During the meeting, a key point raised was the perceived backward-looking focus of the Biden administration, particularly regarding DEI policies. A committee member criticized the administration for not moving forward and instead dwelling on past policies, suggesting that the recent executive order ending DEI initiatives was not enough to shift the conversation. The member referenced a scene from the movie "Spaceballs" to illustrate the frustration with the current focus on past issues rather than addressing present challenges.

Ambassador Gina Abercrombie Winstanley, a witness at the meeting, was acknowledged for her extensive experience in national security and her previous role as the chief diversity and inclusion officer at the State Department. Her insights were anticipated to shed light on the dismantling of programs initiated during the Trump administration.

The discussion also highlighted bipartisan concerns regarding U.S. foreign aid and its implications for global influence, particularly in relation to China. The committee member emphasized that reductions in foreign aid create a vacuum that China is eager to fill, thereby increasing its global influence. The member warned that U.S. efforts to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative could be undermined if the administration continues to withdraw support from foreign aid programs.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored significant concerns about the current administration's foreign policy direction, particularly its impact on U.S. relations with China and the effectiveness of its DEI initiatives. The committee's discussions reflect a growing urgency to reassess strategies to maintain U.S. influence on the global stage.