Last week, my colleagues and I wrote a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken concerning China’s rapid expansion and militarization in the Indo-Pacific region.
Over the recent years, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has imposed their influence and militarized the Indo-Pacific region to intimidate and coerce countries that are allies or work with the United States. China has pledged to provide historic funding towards the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), in an effort to transform the military force operating in and beyond the region. It’s critical that the United States remains as a check to China and maintains a presence for our allies in the region.
Our letter urges Secretary Blinken take all necessary measures to ensure relationships with countries in the Indo-Pacific region remain, while also fostering new partnerships with countries in the region to counter China’s growing influence. We also request that all existing agreements and treaties with countries in the region be reviewed, and to prepare to utilize any existing authorities or privileges we may have in the area to counter China. To read the full letter, click here.
Congressman Daniel Webster represents The Villages in the U.S. House of Representatives.