CAPAC Chair Judy Chu Leads Historic First Caucus Congressional Delegation to China

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-32), Chairwoman of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), recently led the first ever CAPAC Congressional delegation to the People’s Republic of China. The primary purpose of the delegation was to promote U.S. exports and improve the U.S.-China relationship.

“This trip was a historic first for our caucus, and an important opportunity to build a more productive relationship between the United States and China,” said Chairwoman Chu. “With China’s growing presence in the world, we must develop a strategic approach to our U.S.- China relationship that moves beyond the rhetoric of fear and ignorance. While we may have legitimate differences and concerns, we also face shared challenges and economic fates that are closely intertwined. Through this trip, we were able to promote mutual understanding, explore increased trade opportunities, and develop key relationships that can benefit both nations moving forward.”

Chairwoman Chu was accompanied by CAPAC Executive Board Members Rep. Mike Honda (CA-15) and Rep. Eni Faleomavaega (AS).

“I am very pleased with the diplomatic exchange that occurred between the CAPAC delegation and our counterparts in China,” said Congressman Honda. “I am hopeful that we will be able to help grow the U.S. economy by increasing exports to China, as China has become our second-largest trading partner and one of the fastest-growing markets for U.S. exports. I look forward to continuing to work with the President, Ambassador Locke, Congresswoman Chu, and our other CAPAC members to forge a stronger working relationship with China and to build mutual trust between our great nations.”

The Congressional Delegation was coordinated in conjunction with the U.S. Asia Institute and ran through five different cities: Beijing, Nanjing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong.

“In Beijing, we met with many of China's top leaders to discuss trade, internet and religious freedom, the South China Sea and other matters affecting the bilateral relationship,” said Congressman Eni Faleomavaega. “We also visited Shanghai and Hong Kong where we were hosted by the Li Ka Shing Foundation.  Our meetings were informative and we thank all of those who welcomed us.  But most of all, I want to thank our military men and women who are serving in the Asia Pacific region and elsewhere for the sacrifices they have made to make sure that our liberties and values are protected for generations to come.  Every time I travel abroad in my capacity as the Ranking Member of the Asia Pacific Subcommittee or even in previous capacities, I am reminded that our world is a better place because of our veterans and active duty service members and their families.”

In addition to being a historic first for the caucus, the trip was made more significant by the fact that Chairwoman Chu is the first Chinese American woman to serve in Congress and currently the only Chinese American Member of the House of Representatives.

###

The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently Chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.