South Asia: U.S. Foreign Policy in the Region

The House Foreign Affairs Committee Republicans held a hearing to discuss U.S. foreign policy in South Asia, focusing on strategic partnerships, economic engagement, and regional security challenges. Key topics included the U.S.-India trade agreement, defense cooperation, and efforts to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative through targeted investments and infrastructure projects. The committee also addressed concerns about the administration's handling of Afghanistan, particularly the relocation and support of Afghan allies, and emphasized the importance of maintaining U.S. military presence in strategic locations like Diego Garcia. Discussions highlighted the need for bipartisan cooperation to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties in the region, support democratic transitions in countries like Bangladesh and Nepal, and enhance multilateral frameworks such as the Quad to counterbalance China's influence.