U.S. lawmakers express concerns over the potential for China to fill the gap left by a pause in foreign aid, particularly affecting demining efforts in Cambodia. The Cambodian Mine Action Centre faces operational setbacks due to funding freezes and emphasizes the need for consistent American support in clearing landmines. The rise of Chinese influence in international aid underscores urgent calls for re-engagement in U.S. foreign assistance programs.

Concerns have been raised among U.S. lawmakers regarding the potential for China to capitalize on a pause in U.S. foreign aid programs, particularly affecting demining operations in Cambodia. Following a funding freeze, the Cambodian Mine Action Centre announced the demobilization of its staff, necessitated by the loss of American support critical to their demining efforts. Lawmakers fear that if U.S. assistance wanes, China might increase its influence through its foreign aid strategies.

Since 1993, U.S. grants have primarily funded demining projects, with recent communications from the State Department ordering organizations to cease operations. The Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement emphasized a review of assistance programs to align them with U.S. interests, as the country continues to be recognized as a leading supporter of global landmine clearance initiatives. Current efforts in Cambodia estimate that millions of landmines remain, necessitating long-term demining work.

Organizations like Cambodian Self-Help Demining rely heavily on U.S. funding, which constitutes 30% of their operational finances. With a significant number of casualties from unexploded ordnance, there is concern for public safety if funding is delayed. Director Heng Ratana acknowledged alternative funding sources but pointed to the critical role the U.S. has played in supporting demining efforts historically.

The visible nature of demining work serves as a symbol of American assistance, as local communities often associate these operations with U.S. humanitarian efforts. Organizations maintain a visible presence through flags and uniforms, making a significant impression on communities where American representatives might otherwise be unseen. The re-engagement from China, which recently provided $4.4 million in support, highlights competition in international aid.

During a recent congressional hearing, lawmakers from both parties articulated alarm over China’s growing influence in the realm of international development aid. They expressed that if the U.S. does not fulfill its responsibilities, allies may turn to China for assistance, which could undercut U.S. influence in critical regions. The discussions indicated an urgent need for comprehensive aid strategies to counteract the encroachment of Chinese support.

Experts have emphasized that urgent action is necessary to restart significant U.S. assistance programs, which are viewed as essential for strategic competition with China. A letter to the Secretary of State from former ambassadors appealed for a resolution to the funding freeze, referencing the national security implications of demining efforts in countering the proliferation of explosive materials. The dire consequences of halted operations could result in added casualties from landmines.

The State Department has committed to a transparent review of its funding mechanisms, emphasizing support for programs aligned with U.S. national interests. The necessity for swift action is paramount, highlighting life-and-death stakes in demining operations. A prominent figure in demining noted that delays could lead to tragic outcomes for innocent civilians as they encounter landmines in previously cleared areas.

The U.S. pause in foreign aid, particularly affecting demining efforts in Cambodia, raises international concerns, with lawmakers fearing potential benefits for China. The reliance on American funding for demining operations underscores the critical link between U.S. assistance and local safety. A strategic response is deemed necessary to counteract China’s increasing influence, ensuring ongoing support for essential humanitarian initiatives that safeguard lives and promote development.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com

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