WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Chair Young Kim (CA-40) led a bipartisan congressional delegation to the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Taiwan to reaffirm key alliances and strengthen America’s partnerships across the Indo-Pacific. She was joined by Reps. Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), and Michael Cloud (TX-27).
In the Republic of Korea, the delegation toured the Joint Security Area along the Demilitarized Zone and met with U.S. Forces Korea leadership, ROK officials, and National Assembly members. Members also discussed implementation of the historic $350 billion U.S.-ROK investment partnership with industry leaders in shipbuilding and semiconductors.
In Japan, the delegation received a U.S. 7th Fleet briefing at Yokosuka and met with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Economy, Trade, and Industry. Members engaged government and industry leaders on securing supply chains for critical minerals and semiconductors and aligning export controls to keep sensitive technology away from the Chinese military.
In Taiwan, the delegation met with President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, and defense and national security officials, and toured a drone production facility. Members reaffirmed America’s commitment to Taiwan’s self-defense and to strengthening deterrence across the Taiwan Strait.
“From Seoul to Tokyo to Taipei, I saw firsthand that America’s alliances are our greatest strategic advantage and the foundation of a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Rep. Young Kim. “As China works to coerce our friends and rewrite the rules of the region, the United States must stand firmly with our partners to deter aggression, secure our supply chains, and deliver peace through strength. I will always fight to ensure America and our allies have the tools and resolve to keep this critical region free, open, and secure.”
While the delegation was in the region, an earthquake struck Kyushu, Japan. The members issued a statement in response, which you can read HERE.
Please see photos courtesy of the Office of Congresswoman Young Kim HERE.
