Opposing the Republic of South Africa's hosting of military exercises with the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation, and calling on the Biden administration to conduct a thorough review of the United States-South Africa relationship.
Impact
HR145 is indicative of shifting U.S. policy regarding international relationships, especially concerning nations seen as increasing their influence through military cooperation with perceived adversaries of the United States. By prioritizing its military engagement with U.S. allies, the resolution reflects broader concerns about global security, particularly in the context of a changing power dynamic where the PRC is expanding its presence in Africa and collaborating with nations like Russia on military fronts.
Summary
House Resolution 145 (HR145) is a legislative resolution that opposes the Republic of South Africa's decision to host military exercises with the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the Russian Federation. The resolution articulates concerns regarding South Africa's partnership with these nations, particularly in light of their military actions and geopolitical posturing. The resolution calls for South Africa to cancel these military exercises and to realign itself with U.S.-led international military collaborations, signaling a preference for strengthening U.S.-South Africa relations based on shared strategic interests.
Contention
The bill has generated notable contention among legislators and political commentators. Proponents argue that it is essential for the U.S. to challenge South Africa's accommodating stance towards the PRC and Russia, especially as these nations conduct military maneuvers that could destabilize regional security. Conversely, critics of the resolution warn against imposing U.S. perspectives on South African sovereignty and the nation's right to pursue diverse international partnerships. They also raise concerns over the implications this resolution could have on diplomatic relations and economic ties, as South Africa is a significant partner for the U.S. in Africa.
Condemning the Chinese Communist Party's use of a high-altitude surveillance balloon over United States territory as a brazen violation of United States sovereignty.
Reaffirming the importance of diplomacy and development in United States-African Union relations, promoting strategic partnerships and shared objectives between the United States and the African Union, and expressing strong support for the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives relating to the Communist Party of China's "Made In China 2025" Plan and publicly-known malign Communist Party of China's actions supporting the goals of its "Made in China 2025" plan.
A resolution reaffirming the state of Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory and condemning the People's Republic of China's provocations in South Asia.
Reaffirming the United States-Philippines alliance and condemning the gray zone campaign of the People's Republic of China in the South China Sea against the Philippines, and for other purposes.
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) and the harmful conflation of China's "One China Principle" and the United States "One China Policy".