San Diego County Republican Rep. Darrell Issa is collaborating with a Texas Democrat on legislation to increase American strategic engagement with countries in the Indian Ocean region to counter China.
The Indian Ocean Region Strategic Review Act by Issa and Rep. Joaquin Castro, both of whom serve on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, would require development of a multi-year strategy and implementation plan for coordinated regional military, diplomatic, and development initiatives.
“As we seek to counter China’s aggression and establish a winning Indo-Pacific strategy, America’s engagement with the Indian Ocean region is critically important to our national interest,” said Issa on Tuesday after introducing the legislation.
“It is a point of intersection of widespread global trade and rapid economic growth, and it warrants a priority position in America’s policy choices,” he said.
Castro noted that the region stretches across three continents and is home to nearly 40% of the world’s population. He said the legislation will “streamline U.S. diplomacy, defense, and development coordination with our allies and partners to build a free, safe, and prosperous future for the Indian Ocean region and the world.”
The bill would require coordination of efforts across the State Department, Defense Department and U.S. Agency for International Development.
Issa represents the 48th District in central and east San Diego County.