Representative Adam Smith (WA 9) spoke to WSCRC and WSCRF audience on February 24th, less than a day after Russia invaded Ukraine, on some of the key issues that cloud the current U.S.-China relationship: Russia-Ukraine conflict, Taiwan, discrimination against Asian Americans, and trade.
The Congressman emphatically noted that Putin must not succeed with his invasion as any success for Russia would embolden other countries to use force for territorial gain. He noted that this is an opportunity for China to use its leverage to stop Russia, but China might follow suit to use military might against Taiwan. Rep. Smith noted that he favors continued support for Taiwan and believes “strategic ambiguity” regarding the U.S. position on Taiwan is the right approach. Regarding bills in Congress to support American competitiveness, Congressman Smith expressed concern whether such legislation will be finalized. There was bi-partisan support in the Senate for the USICA bill, reaching compromise on a legislation to support critical U.S. infrastructure (e.g., semiconductors), however, may prove very difficult as the House version of this act passed on strictly partisan lines, implying a lack of consensus. When talking about trade, Rep. Smith commented that the U.S. lacks a trade policy for Asia and should form trade partnerships, including joining the CPTPP, to compete against China. The Congressman also expressed concerns about unfair discrimination against Asian Americans, particularly in federal government agencies that require security clearances.
Click here to rewatch the webinar.