From February 18, 2022 post.
Congressmen Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) introduced the Transparency for Malign Chinese Investments in Global Port Infrastructure Act, which would require the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), in consultation with the secretaries of Defense and State, to study and report to Congress information related to Chinese investments in port infrastructure made around the globe.
“The Chinese Communist Party has quietly expanded its grip on critical port infrastructure across the globe, which it may exploit for economic and military advantages. As China continues its aggressive actions against America and her allies, Congress – and the American people – need a better understanding of our vulnerabilities and China’s strongholds. The information our bipartisan legislation calls for will help America strengthen our ability to combat the CCP’s economic and security footholds at home and around the globe.” said Congressman Wenstrup.
“As the Chinese Communist Party continues its international aggression against the United States and our allies, it is imperative that we develop a deep understanding of the economic and military implications of the CCP's port infrastructure operations. I'm very pleased to join Congressman Wenstrup in introducing this legislation to ensure that we have the best available information to counter CCP expansionism, while safeguarding the security of the United States and our allies,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi.
Background:
Shortly after assuming office in 2013, People’s Republic of China President Xi Jinping unveiled the Belt and Road Initiative to expand China’s global economic and political influence across the world.
As part of the initiative, China has made a concerted effort to deepen investments in economic infrastructure around the globe, which it then leverages to promote its political and security interests. While Chinese investments have primarily gone to commercial ports, some of these investments are near U.S. military interests.
The 2021 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission’s Annual Report to Congress recommended an assessment of Chinese port investments within the Western Hemisphere as China has invested heavily in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The Transparency for Malign Chinese Investments in Global Port Infrastructure Act builds on the Commission’s recommendation by requiring the DNI, in consultation with the secretaries of Defense and State, to report to Congress on Chinese investments in port infrastructure, made since January 1, 2012, around the globe.
As prescribed by the bill, the unclassified report, which may include a classified annex, shall include:
- A review of existing and potential or planned future Chinese investments in port infrastructure, including by government entities and state-owned enterprises;
- Any known Chinese interest in establishing a military presence at or near such ports; and
- An assessment of China’s current and potential future ability to leverage commercial ports for military purposes and the implications for the national and economic security of the U.S.
Original source can be found here.
