American territories in the Pacific are calling for increased national support as they face emerging threats from China and North Korea, according to Representative Jeff Hurd, who chairs the House Natural Resources Committee’s Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs. During a recent hearing, the subcommittee examined Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Marianas Islands, emphasizing their significance in U.S. homeland security and military strategies.
Hurd highlighted the necessity of proactive support to ensure the safety and security of these territories, stressing the importance of collaboration with the Department of Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs. Representative Uifa’atali Amata Radewagen pointed out that American Samoa is particularly at risk due to its proximity to countries with increasing ties to Beijing. She indicated that recent agreements between China and nearby nations, such as the Cook Islands and Samoa, are raising concerns regarding regional security.
Radewagen specifically noted the growing presence of Chinese fishing vessels in American Samoa’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and called for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard presence to deter Chinese influence. The urgency of this situation reflects the broader context of geopolitical tension in the Pacific, which has witnessed increased involvement from China, raising alarms for U.S. policymakers.
This scenario resonates with past discussions regarding the status of Guam and American Samoa in regional dialogues. Notably, both territories are moving towards securing associate membership in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), with a decision expected from PIF leaders soon. This potential membership aligns with efforts to bolster the political voices of territories in light of geopolitical shifts.
Furthermore, the cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in previous years have raised concerns about the sustainability of U.S. support in the Pacific, which experts argue could strengthen China’s influence. The territories’ leaders are advocating for renewed engagement and strategic partnerships to address both economic and security challenges, fostering resilience in the face of competition from China.
Ultimately, the calls for increased national support and strategic collaboration are seen as essential to strengthening U.S. commitments in the Pacific, with hopes that such initiatives will contribute to not only security but also the socio-economic development of these critical areas.
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