Westerman Returns From Historic CODEL Demonstrating U.S. Strength in the Indo-Pacific and Countering CCP Influence

Statement

"Our bipartisan visit to the Indo-Pacific illustrated the continued importance of strong relationships with the Freely Associated States, especially as the PRC expands its influence. Passing the Compacts of Free Association is a critical way to affirm those relationships. We also saw the importance of preserving the reefs, marine life, and environment in the Indo-Pacific. Thank you Chairman Westerman for leading this trip and thank you to all of the people of Guam, Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Micronesia who taught us so much. Finally, the devastation left behind by the wildfire at Lahaina was heartbreaking. It reminded us of the fires that burned through cities like Chicago or San Francisco more than a hundred years ago - the fire was so hot it melted glass at 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. I believe and hope we are all committed to delivering much needed federal assistance to Hawaii as we join with the island state, county and town in rebuilding and recovering."

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