Washington, March 28: In response to China’s growing economic and diplomatic influence, U.S. officials have informed senators that Southeast Asia and Africa will be central to Washington’s strategy in shaping the next phase of global competition.
During confirmation hearings for top diplomatic positions before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, nominees emphasized priorities related to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the African Development Bank, and global education and cultural outreach, reflecting broader efforts to strengthen American influence.
Kevin Kim, nominated as the U.S. ambassador to ASEAN, described Southeast Asia as a strategic hub for global Trade and security. He noted that the region is located along maritime routes through which one-third of global shipping passes annually. He added that the U.S. must ensure that the Indo-Pacific region remains “free and open.”
Kim stressed that the ASEAN economies, with a combined GDP of nearly $4 trillion, represent a significant export market for American goods. It is essential to maintain the U.S. as the “preferred partner” for ASEAN countries, which includes expanding trade access, strengthening supply chains, and shaping regional regulations.
He argued that the U.S. retains structural advantages, including being a primary source of foreign direct investment (FDI). “We are still the largest provider of FDI in Southeast Asia, which helps influence the region’s economic policies,” he stated.
In the context of Africa, Ademola Adewale-Sadik, nominated as the U.S. executive director at the African Development Bank, emphasized the need for Washington to better leverage its role as a major shareholder to advance economic and strategic interests.
“We are the second-largest shareholder… and this should mean something,” he said, advocating for reforms to create more opportunities for American companies in development projects. He characterized Africa as a long-term strategic front, arguing that its development represents the largest single opportunity for expansion in global GDP, and that strong U.S. participation could benefit both American and African economies.
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