MEDIA RELEASE

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has announced she will join congressional leaders on a bipartisan delegation to meet with key leaders in Japan, South Korea, and China.

The meetings will focus on economic growth and trade, regional security challenges, and strengthening our alliances in the region.

On Friday, April 18, the delegation will also visit with USPACOM leaders in Hawaii for a roundtable discussion before they travel to Asia.

“Our economic and strategic partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region are critical to advancing our shared interests in stability and prosperity,” said Gabbard, who serves on the House Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees. “In Hawaii, we deeply appreciate and understand the importance of these regional alliances. Through this delegation’s bilateral meetings with leaders in Japan, China and South Korea, as well as a discussion with USPACOM in Hawaii, we will strengthen these ties as we work together to maximize the opportunities in the region.”

Majority Leader Eric Cantor said, “While the situation in the Middle East continues to deteriorate and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine has raised new concerns about security in Europe, the United States must also remain engaged in promoting peace and stability in Asia. Our investment in Asia’s future is an investment in our own prosperity. I look forward to a productive dialogue with Japanese, Korean, and Chinese leaders about the importance of free trade and free markets, as well as our shared interests in promoting stability in the region and confronting North Korean provocations.”

Chairman Paul Ryan said, “I look forward to engaging with our allies and trade partners in Asia. Strong and healthy relationships are vital to opening new markets for American-made products. And given the security challenges we face in Asia, I especially look forward to meeting with the troops on the front lines in Japan and South Korea.”

The Congressional delegation includes: House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA), Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI), Cybersecurity Subcommittee Chairman Pat Meehan (R-PA), Armed Services Committee Vice Chairman Mac Thornberry (R-TX), State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee Chairwoman Kay Granger (R-TX), Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD), Rep. Aaron Schock (R-IL), and Rep. Paul Cook (R-CA).