OPINION:
With a divided government in Washington and increased challenges in Asia-Pacific and other parts of the world, the Obama administration’s ambitious trade deal with Asia could face headwinds for the next two years (“Asia trade deal coming together quickly, Froman says,” Web, Jan. 27). The Senate Finance Committee leadership must not ignore the impact regional economic integration may have had on Asia-Pacific economic security.
Washington needs a commission that will advise Congress so that its members will have some idea of the impact on national security of the trade-related legislation. It is therefore critical to ask that Congress study the feasibility of establishing a congressional commission similar to the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC). This body would monitor the national security implications of the bilateral trade and economic relationship between the United States and allies such as Taiwan. It would also provide Congress recommendations for legislative and administrative action where appropriate.
The Republican leadership must move swiftly to ensure that Congress creates a commission similar to the USCC in order to bolster the prosperity in Asia-Pacific. As China’s power grows and its assertiveness in regional disputes increases, U.S. allies and partners continue to rely on the United States to help reinforce regional security. A congressional commission with the legislative mandate will enable U.S. allies and security partners in East Asia (such as Taiwan) to help the United States carry out its rebalance strategy.
KENT WANG
Advisory commissioner
Overseas Community Affairs Council of Republic of China (Taiwan) in the United States
Potomac Falls
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