Understanding the importance of American territories and allies to peace in the Indo-Pacific

The East Pacific is home to multiple American territories, as well as three Freely Associated States for whom the United States provides economic assistance and military security. As a result, this network of islands forms a strong foundation for American presence in the region, which is crucial to ensuring peace, security, and economic prosperity throughout the Pacific.

As China grows increasingly agressive and coercive, these territories and partners will serve an outsized role in deterring and responding to any threats that arise. During the Natural Resource Committee's field hearing in Guam, I was able to meet and discuss the key issues facing this region with representatives of the governments most in tune with, and at risk from, China's growing threat.