South OC Times

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40), chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled “Properly Resourcing the Indo-Pacific in an Era of Great Power Competition.”

In her address, Rep. Kim emphasized the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region amid increasing U.S.-China competition. She stated, "The Indo-Pacific region’s economic, geographical, and military significance makes it an essential arena for U.S.-China competition."

Rep. Kim highlighted China's aggressive actions under President Xi Jinping's leadership: "Xi Jinping is growing bolder and more brazen by the day. The PLA is using axes, knives, and water cannons in the South China Sea, flying fighter jets and sailing naval vessels around Taiwan, and bribing officials to influence Pacific Island nations."

She warned that the United States is at a critical juncture in its competition with China: "We are at a crossroads in the U.S.-CCP Great Power Competition. China’s economy is slowing down, and the world is waking up to the CCP’s illegal and exploitative tactics."

Kim underscored the need for U.S. support for allies in light of financial constraints: "During this time, we must choose to show up for our allies or risk ceding our leadership to the Chinese Communist Party." She noted that while significant funding has been allocated through initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental providing $2 billion for military financing in the region, concerns remain about adequate resourcing.

"The East Asian and Pacific Affairs Bureau (EAP) is historically one of the most underfunded bureaus at State," she remarked. She expressed concerns over budget allocations potentially diluting efforts focused on countering CCP influence: "I am concerned that this fund will become yet another account to finance any project around the world with even a remote nexus to China."

Rep. Kim also highlighted recent diplomatic efforts such as opening embassies in Solomon Islands and Tonga but stressed continued expansion was necessary: "Our continued presence and programming in the region are crucial for our allies and partners." She recounted her visit to meet Taiwanese President Lai Ching-teh and other officials during her trip last May.

Concluding her remarks, Rep. Kim stated: "The purpose of this hearing is to discuss the best path forward for the United States to counter CCP activities in light of financial constraints." She thanked witnesses present for their testimony before commencing detailed discussions on U.S. government efforts.