"I also want to underscore this is a recommendation from Senator Coons."
"I found a country hungry for U.S. presence, and I found a country littered with debt trap infrastructure projects that they will never be able to pay back."
"If you look at the statement of NATO, this was the most far reaching statement of concerns of European partners about what China is doing in Europe."
"The challenges we have at the border, the challenges with fentanyl, just everyday Americans' concerns about the globe often are issues related to the Americas and political instability there."
"But we need to do more, and we have to contest China's actions not only in terms of their forward basing strategy but their desire to go after Africa's rare earths."
"In order for the United States to be seen as a credible, reliable partner and provide an alternate choice to the PRC..."
"I will also just indicate that for me the greatest vehicle for building the partnerships that are going to be necessary is to advance partnerships around technology."
"I actually share very much what Senator Risch said here."
"I think one of the reasons that China is addressing this issue is not just because we have asked but Congress has been deeply engaged as well."
"Let us come together for the sense of our strategic competition with the PRC."
"That means we are not playing on a level playing field."
"We should be providing an alternative to the infrastructure development that the PRC offers."
"I just got back from Laos and Vietnam where I was the first U.S. Senator to visit Laos in 15 years."
"Let us complete the task. Let us get it done."
"The only way we are going to get to the finish line is if we generally work together, listen to each other, are willing to compromise."
"It's going to be equally searching, but the universe shrinks."
"Kamala's got to have somebody that she feels comfortable with, can be in the room with her one on one, give her brutally candid advice, even to say, Madam President, I think you're going the wrong dir..."
"Don't do a pressure campaign. Don't get folks to lean in because you want Vice President Harris to pick the person that will most help her win."
