WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), ranking member and chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement on the United States’ new Indo-Pacific strategy:
“Even as we work with our allies and partners to face critical challenges around the world, the United States must not lose focus on the Indo-Pacific region. The administration’s newly released Indo-Pacific strategy, and its engagements with U.S. allies and partners in the region this past week, are important steps in this regard. Competition from China demands a strong and collaborative response from the United Sates and our allies to keep the region free and open.
“There is strong bipartisan and bicameral support for the Quad and the concrete and visible benefits it provides to the region, including its combined donations of $500 million COVID-19 vaccines. Members of both parties also support deeper engagement with Pacific Island nations – key U.S. partners – animated by a common commitment to democracy and shared prosperity.
“We expect
continuous consultation with the administration as the Indo-Pacific strategy is
implemented, and that the strategy will be reflected in the president’s budget
request. Finally, we are committed to meaningful engagement with our allies and
partners to tackle shared challenges and seize opportunities to build a free and
open region.”
###