In a recent government meeting, lawmakers discussed HR 8683, a bill aimed at requiring the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of State to monitor China's efforts to acquire or build strategic foreign ports. The bill, introduced by Congressman Bill Huizenga, highlights concerns over China's expanding influence through its Belt and Road Initiative and the Maritime Silk Road, which have seen significant investments in ports worldwide, including in the Western Hemisphere.

During the meeting, Congressman Huizenga emphasized the potential military and economic risks posed by Chinese investments in strategic ports, citing specific examples such as the $3.6 billion deepwater megaport in Chiñai, Peru, owned by a Chinese state entity with ties to the People's Liberation Army. He argued that these investments could facilitate espionage and increase China's global market presence, ultimately impacting U.S. economic interests and leading to higher prices for American consumers.

The bill proposes a comprehensive study to map foreign and domestic ports critical to U.S. interests and analyze China's plans to expand its control over these ports. It also calls for recommendations on measures to ensure open access and security for strategic ports, aiming to provide alternatives to countries lured by China's investments.

Support for the bill was echoed by other lawmakers, who expressed the need for greater situational awareness regarding China's global maritime ambitions. However, some members raised concerns about the redundancy of the proposed mapping exercise, noting that similar studies have already been conducted by think tanks and academic institutions.

The meeting also addressed HR 9564, the Houthi Human Rights Accountability Act, which seeks to impose sanctions on the Houthi movement in Yemen for its human rights abuses and terrorist activities. Lawmakers highlighted the need for bipartisan support to hold the Houthis accountable for their actions, which include indoctrination of youth and systematic human rights violations.

Overall, the discussions underscored the growing bipartisan concern over China's strategic port investments and the need for a coordinated U.S. response to safeguard national security and economic interests.