American territories in the Pacific are urging for greater support from the national government to address rising threats posed by China and North Korea. This call to action was emphasized by Representative Jeff Hurd, chair of the House Natural Resources Committee’s Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, during a recent hearing focused on Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Marianas Islands. The subcommittee underscored the critical role these territories play in U.S. homeland security and military strategies.
Representative Hurd stressed the importance of proactive measures to ensure the safety of these territories, advocating for enhanced collaboration with the Department of Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs. Representative Uifa’atali Amata Radewagen voiced particular concern for American Samoa, emphasizing its vulnerabilities due to its geographical proximity to nations increasingly aligned with China. She pointed out noteworthy agreements between China and nearby countries such as the Cook Islands and Samoa, which raise alarms about regional security dynamics.
Moreover, Radewagen raised concerns regarding the increasing presence of Chinese fishing vessels within American Samoa’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), calling for the establishment of a permanent U.S. Coast Guard presence to counteract Chinese influence. The urgency of this situation comes amidst broader geopolitical tensions in the Pacific, prompting U.S. policymakers to take notice of these developments.
This situation is reminiscent of earlier discussions surrounding the status of Guam and American Samoa within regional dialogues. Both territories are actively moving towards potential associate membership in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), with decisions anticipated from PIF leaders in the near future. Such membership is viewed as a crucial step in amplifying the political voices of these territories amidst shifting geopolitical landscapes.
In addition, the previous cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have sparked concerns about the sustainability of U.S. support, which many experts argue could inadvertently bolster China’s influence in the region. Leaders from these territories are advocating for renewed engagement and strategic partnerships to tackle both economic and security challenges, aiming to foster resilience against external pressures, particularly from China.
The ongoing calls for increased national support and strategic cooperation are viewed as vital for reinforcing U.S. commitments in the Pacific. Such initiatives not only aim to enhance security but also aspire to promote socio-economic development within these key areas, fostering hope for a more stable and prosperous future.
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