US Representative Bill Huizenga emphasized the significance of recent elections in Bangladesh and Nepal as pivotal moments for US involvement in South Asia. Speaking at a hearing on US foreign policy in the region, Huizenga, who chairs the South and Central Asia Subcommittee in the US Congress, highlighted Bangladesh’s successful democratic polls post the July 2024 uprising and Nepal’s upcoming democratic elections following its own period of upheaval.
Characterizing South and Central Asia as a vibrant region with a burgeoning population leaning towards western ideals over China’s authoritarian model, Huizenga underscored the strategic importance of the region. With nearly two billion inhabitants and key waterways shaping the Indo-Pacific power balance, he commended President Donald Trump’s efforts in securing deals to bolster US economic interests in the area.
Huizenga raised concerns about China’s aggressive tactics in the region, citing its Belt and Road Initiative as a means of ensnaring smaller nations in debt traps. He also noted China’s infrastructural developments along its borders with India, Nepal, and Bhutan, aimed at supporting its military ambitions. Emphasizing the need to safeguard the Indian Ocean, a vital global maritime route, Huizenga stressed the importance of naval cooperation to counter China’s influence and ensure uninterrupted trade flow.
Addressing the US-India trade relationship, Huizenga lauded the recent trade deal which includes favorable tariff rates for India and increased American energy exports. Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about deepening cooperation and investment under the new framework negotiated by the president.
Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, S Paul Kapoor, echoed Huizenga’s sentiments, emphasizing the risks of a dominant hostile power in South Asia impacting the global economy. Kapoor outlined key strategies including defense cooperation, targeted investments in critical infrastructure, and diplomatic efforts to counter coercive influences in the region. Huizenga highlighted the strengthened US-India defense ties as a positive step towards enhancing regional stability and security.