Chairmen Gallagher, Green, Comer, and Westerman have raised concerns about Chinese military activity in the Arctic region. In a letter addressed to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the Chairmen expressed worries regarding China's increasing influence in the Arctic.
"The U.S. government must comprehensively address the PRC's activities in the North American Arctic—where the PRC has systematically sought to gain footholds in rare earth mining operations and purchase strategically significant land," stated the Chairmen in their letter.
The Chairmen highlighted specific concerns about China's activities in Alaska, which is rich in critical minerals. They emphasized the importance of safeguarding these resources from foreign entities, especially those affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party. The Chairmen pointed out that the U.S. is heavily reliant on imports for certain minerals, making it crucial to prevent the surrender of Alaskan reserves to potentially hostile actors.
"The implications of PRC influence in the Arctic are far-reaching, and it is incumbent upon us to work collaboratively to safeguard U.S. prosperity in the region," the Chairmen emphasized. They requested a briefing from DHS and DOI to ensure that China is not gaining a foothold in the North American Arctic and to empower tribal communities to protect their interests.
The Chairmen urged for prompt action, stating, "we request a briefing as soon as possible but no later than March 29, 2024."
In a background context, a House Homeland Security Committee Hearing in November 2023 underscored the strategic importance of the Arctic, with officials testifying on the escalating geopolitical tensions in the region. Deputy Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard Vice Admiral Peter Gautier highlighted China's rapid expansion of capabilities in the Arctic, further underscoring the need for vigilance regarding Chinese activities in the region.
