US Diplomat Urges Bipartisan China Focus, Naval Buildup Amid Global Challenges

One year ago, on September 18, 2024, Kurt Campbell, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, addressed the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasizing the critical need for a bipartisan focus on China. Campbell, a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in Asia-Pacific affairs, highlighted the multifaceted challenges posed by China, which he asserted surpass those of the Cold War era.

Campbell's remarks underscored the complexity of the current geopolitical landscape, particularly in comparison to the Cold War period that lasted from 1947 to 1991. He stated, "Frankly, the Cold War pales in comparison to the multifaceted challenges that China presents. It's not just the military challenges. It's across the board. It's in the Global South. It is in technology."

The diplomat stressed the urgent need to increase the pace of U.S. naval shipbuilding over the next decade. Campbell referred to the current era as "a naval time," emphasizing that enhancing the speed of warship production should be a top priority for the United States Navy, which serves as a crucial branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

One of the most concerning issues raised by Campbell was China's support for Russia's defense industry. He revealed that this support comes directly from China's top leadership, indicating a high level of strategic cooperation between Beijing and Moscow. Campbell noted that China has been assisting Russia's drone activity in Ukraine, highlighting the global implications of this partnership.

The diplomat also discussed the AUKUS defense project, a trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States announced in September 2021. Campbell addressed concerns about technology sharing restrictions, particularly regarding unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). He emphasized the need to balance security considerations with practical defense planning.

Looking ahead, Campbell mentioned the upcoming Quad summit, scheduled for September 21, 2024. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, involving Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, is expected to make significant announcements regarding efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Pacific and Southeast Asian regions.

Lastly, Campbell touched on plans for increased security cooperation in the Indian Ocean, which covers about 20% of Earth's water surface. He mentioned that Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet since 2021, has been tasked with integrating national military and security approaches in the region.

As global tensions continue to rise, Campbell's call for a united, bipartisan approach to addressing the challenges posed by China reflects the complex nature of modern international relations and the need for strategic, long-term planning in matters of national security and global stability.

"This is the new frontier, working more closely with a partner like India in the Indian Ocean."