U.S. Lawmaker: America Must Pay or Lose the Pacific

A senior U.S. congressman has issued a direct warning: America must invest more money in the Pacific Islands or risk losing its influence there. Representative Ed Case says the U.S. needs to strengthen its economic ties with Pacific Island nations. He argues this is critical for regional stability. His comments support a new proposed law called the PROSPER in the Pacific Act. The goal of the act is to increase American economic activity in the region. The push comes as the United States and China compete for partnerships with these island countries. The U.S. is urging Congress to act quickly to secure its position.