U.S. lawmakers express concerns that a cessation of foreign aid may enable China to extend its influence, particularly in Cambodia’s demining efforts. A funding freeze has stalled operations critical for clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance left from past conflicts. As NGOs seek alternative funding sources, bipartisan discussions emphasize the strategic competition with China in the realm of international development and foreign assistance.
Lawmakers are concerned that a pause in U.S. foreign aid could allow China to gain influence in international development. Amid the review of U.S. assistance programs, demining initiatives in Cambodia, largely funded by U.S. grants, are facing interruptions. The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) confirmed that operations would begin shutting down by March 1, due to the funding freeze, which has been enforced since a recent communication from the State Department.
The U.S. has historically supported more than 30% of demining efforts in Cambodia, crucial for addressing the dangers posed by landmines from past conflicts. Bill Morse, the chairman of Cambodian Self-Help Demining, noted that the country could continue facing explosive hazards for up to a century. Other countries, including China and Japan, continue to support CMAC, while the estimated quantity of unexploded ordnance remains staggering, around 4 to 6 million items.
Demining serves as a visible symbol of U.S. support in Cambodia, creating goodwill through on-ground operations. Bill Morse emphasized the importance of this visibility, stating, “Most people in the country, in the countryside, what they know of the United States is what we’re doing in the field … They’ve never seen an ambassador in their life. I may be the only American they ever meet.”
With U.S. grants on hold, NGOs like Morse’s seek alternative funding sources to continue their vital missions. China recently contributed $4.4 million to support Cambodia’s demining efforts. The ongoing freeze of U.S. partnerships raises concerns amongst lawmakers who assert that China could easily fill the void left by the U.S., potentially undermining American influence.
During a recent House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, members from both parties expressed anxiety about China’s growing role in international aid, with former Congressman Ted Yoho stating, “If we’re not there, China will be there.” As discussions continue regarding U.S. soft power, many fear a significant loss of influence in regions traditionally supported by American assistance.
Several experts presented their views at the hearing—highlighting how nations previously received U.S. assistance may now have to turn to China amid funding gaps. A former Democratic staff member noted that the United States has engaged with nations like Ghana precisely to counteract growing Chinese influence, indicating a strategic shift required in U.S. foreign policy.
Former ambassadors to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos recently urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to promptly lift the funding freeze affecting demining programs. They underscored that U.S.-financed demining efforts play a critical role in ensuring national security and fostering diplomatic relations. They emphasized the value of these programs in creating goodwill and enabling access to key government personnel.
The State Department has pledged to ensure a thorough and transparent review of foreign assistance programs, with assurances that those meeting national interests will continue. Bill Morse issued a warning that the funding freeze could lead to loss of life, stressing the urgent need for resumed operations to prevent tragic accidents involving unexploded ordnance in cleared areas.
The current pause in U.S. foreign aid, particularly affecting demining efforts in Cambodia, raises significant concerns about the potential for China to expand its influence. As U.S. funding is halted, local NGOs are seeking alternatives to continue their critical work in removing landmines and preventing further tragedies. The bipartisan alarm in Congress highlights the strategic implications of this aid review and its impact on U.S. foreign relations.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
