Palmetto State News

U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.), members of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, have introduced the Indian Ocean Region Strategic Review Act. This legislation aims to advance U.S. diplomatic, economic, and security interests in the Indian Ocean region by requiring a multi-year strategy and implementation plan for engagement with regional partners and allies.

“The Indian Ocean region spans three continents and 35 countries, and is critical for global commerce and U.S. economic security,” said Senator Scott. “To compete with an increasingly aggressive China and ensure freedom of navigation, we must have a comprehensive approach to this dynamic region. That’s why I am proud to partner with my colleagues in introducing this forward-looking legislation to ensure that the complexities and significance of the Indian Ocean region are not overlooked within our broader Indo-Pacific strategy.”

Senator Kaine emphasized the need for strategic response: “The People’s Republic of China is moving aggressively to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean region, and the United States needs to respond smartly and strategically. That’s why I’m introducing bipartisan legislation to develop a comprehensive plan to strengthen U.S. leadership and engagement, as well as cooperation among our partners, in the Indian Ocean region."

Senator Rubio highlighted national security concerns: “It’s crucial for America to work alongside our allies and partners who are facing increasing threats from Beijing’s aggression in the Indo-Pacific. We must ensure both our national security interests and our values, as well as those of our allies, are upheld and defended.”

Senator Coons pointed out ongoing efforts: “The United States has expanded our diplomatic presence and strengthened our alliances in the Indo-Pacific, and we should continue to build on this success. China is acting in the region with unrestrained aggression towards its adversaries and neighbors. This region is vital to global trade and innovation, and the United States must work with our partners in the region to deter China’s aggression towards its neighbors."

The legislation mandates coordination across various U.S. departments including State, Defense, and USAID for cohesive engagement strategies in the Indian Ocean region. It also seeks a more comprehensive definition of "Indian Ocean region" for strategic planning purposes.

The full text of the Indian Ocean Region Strategic Review Act is available here.

The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission recommended creating a comprehensive strategy for U.S. engagement in their 2022 annual report. Congressmen Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) and Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.