The President’s emphasis on the Western Hemisphere is well placed. China, our competitor or adversary, has expanded its influence in our backyard.  A look at the attached graphic is indicative of changes taking place. Hence the letter

Letter From a Flag Officer to a Diplomat. Immediate Action required.

China's Influence Threatens US Economic, Political and Military Interests.

 

The military is an extension of foreign policy. When diplomacy breaks down the military becomes an option that may be called upon. Diplomacy is preferred.


Chinese Belt and Road initiatives targeted 150 countries, gaining international influence over the US. (Coalition Building)

China gains influence by placing proxy nations in UN agencies to set international rules aligned with Chinese standards, e.g., international telecommunication.

 

China’s willingness to invest sways countries to support China on sensitive matters such as the South China Sea and Taiwan. The Strait of Malacca is as important economically as Hormuz.

China outpaces the US, increasing its presence, challenging US declining interest. Countering China starts with Administration policy and Ambassador relationships.

 

China seeks key critical mineral reserves for manufacturing and technology to diversify its supply chain. China is pushing to become the dependable trading partner.

Chinese global influence is creating a political system critical of the United States. The CCP is delivering growth, stability, and leadership, accusing the US of being an unwelcome imperialist.

 

China is surpassing the US as a positive external influence. The Belt and Road initiative is backed by MOA‘s and economic incentives. There are calls to replace the US dollar as the world's currency and place China with its proxy nations as leaders in the new global order.

Chinese economic and strategic expansion is driven by financing infrastructure funded by loans from major Chinese banks. Delivering infrastructure wins in the eyes of targeted nations.

 

China is building strategic communication with investment in 4G networks in targeted countries. In the Western Hemisphere, 24 nations use Chinese firms in their IT networks.

 

China has invested over $8 billion in six Caribbean countries in the tourism, transportation and agriculture sectors. China’s trade with Latin America and the Caribbean increased from $18 billion to $450 billion in 2022.


Every country gets a vote. A Barbados vote counts the same as India. DJT emphasized the Western Hemisphere. Important considering some Latin American countries have succumbed to Chinese favor. Our counter argument - Can China sustain its effort? 

Source: FPA and Washington Times