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 that will be critical for our industrial and technological capabilities.

Africa and the Americas--32 of the 35 youngest countries in the world are in Africa, and the population growth there as well as a whole lot of other factors make it a really important area of strategic focus.

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 that will be critical for our industrial and technological capabilities.

It is imperative that our NATO allies increase their defense spend and take efforts to revitalize their own industrial base.

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.

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.

I also want to underscore this is a recommendation from Senator Coons.

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.

I just got back from Laos and Vietnam where I was the first U.S. Senator to visit Laos in 15 years.

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.

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 also want to underscore this is a recommendation from Senator Coons.

In order for the United States to be seen as a credible, reliable partner and provide an alternate choice to the PRC...

We should be providing an alternative to the infrastructure development that the PRC offers.

Let us come together for the sense of our strategic competition with the PRC.

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.

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.

That means we are not playing on a level playing field.