Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik expressed her thoughts on the recent address given by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to Congress. Stefanik welcomed Kishida to the Capitol and highlighted the ongoing efforts to address challenges posed by Communist China and North Korea in the Indo-Pacific region. She stated, "I’m proud to welcome Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to our nation’s Capitol as we continue our joint efforts to combat the malign encroachment of Communist China and North Korea in the Indo-Pacific region."

Stefanik mentioned her previous bipartisan delegation to Japan, where discussions were held with U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel regarding Communist China's misinformation campaign affecting Japanese commerce. She emphasized her commitment to enhancing the security partnership between the United States and Japan, particularly in supporting service members from Upstate New York and the North Country serving in the Pacific region. Stefanik affirmed, "I will continue working to strengthen our country’s security partnership with Japan and support our brave service members, including many from Upstate New York and the North Country, as they proudly serve our country in the Pacific region."

In September 2023, Congresswoman Stefanik led a bipartisan congressional delegation to the Indo-Pacific region, including visits to Japan, Singapore, and Thailand. The purpose of the delegation was to demonstrate U.S. support amidst growing aggression from Communist China. During this visit, Stefanik had the opportunity to meet with constituents from Clinton, Warren, Washington, and Montgomery counties who are serving in the military.

The full statement by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik can be accessed at the following link: [Stefanik Statement on Japanese Prime Minister Kishida’s Congressional Address](https://stefanik.house.gov/2024/4/stefanik-statement-on-japanese-prime-minister-kishida-s-congressional-address)