Expressing Importance of United States Alliance with Republic of Korea and Contributions of Korean Americans

Floor Speech

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Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I thank my dear friend, Chairman Engel.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 809, which, as the chairman mentioned, I authored. This resolution expresses the importance of our country's alliance with the Republic of Korea.

Affirmation of this alliance during this time of transition to a new administration and a new Congress is being closely watched throughout the Indo-Pacific region, and it is encouraging to note that support for this resolution is bipartisan and was passed unanimously by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

A little over 100 years ago, the Republic of Korea declared itself sovereign and formed a provisional government. Today, it is one of the most vibrant, prosperous, and free societies in the world.

The United States and South Korea have a special diplomatic, economic, and security relationship, strengthened by shared strategic interests and a commitment cemented by democratic values.

Our alliance is central to advancing democracy, free markets, human rights, the rule of law, peace and security, and crushing COVID-19, not only in the Indo-Pacific region, but throughout the world.

But this alliance is not limited to international cooperation. Korean Americans contribute so much to the fabric of our American communities, including the communities in my district in New York. Nearly 2 million Korean Americans live across our country, and I know from my personal experience that Korean Americans enrich all aspects of our society.

I am proud to lead this resolution through the House of Representatives today and call on my colleagues to continue to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the U.S. and our vital ally, South Korea.

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