Senator Kim Uplifts Alliances in Indo-Pacific as Critical to America’s Continued Economic Prosperity and Security

June 20, 2025

WASHINGTON D.C. – Around the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan, Senator Andy Kim joined the Center for Strategic & International Studies for a conversation on the future of the trilateral relationship between the United States, Republic of South Korea, and Japan, where he emphasized the critical value of these strategic alliances for the long-term security and prosperity of the United States and greater Indo-Pacific region. 

“I believe that one of the most important strategic advantages that we have as a country is the ability to forge alliances and coalitions,” said Senator Kim. 

On the importance of unified support for the trilateral relationship, Senator Kim added: “If the United States is unable to maintain a strong working relationship and partnership with South Korea and Japan, two of our strongest partners for so long, what kind of signal is that going to send…A lot of countries around the world are looking towards the trilat as a barometer of America’s commitment. And if we can’t commit to South Korea and Japan – who the hell are we going to commit to.” 

VIDEO OF SENATOR KIM’S FULL REMARKS  

During the conversation, Senator Kim echoed his personal commitment to fostering the United States’ alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific and highlighted the economic benefit of cooperating on emerging technologies like AI to ensure a competitive edge over China. He also outlined the dangers of the Trump administration’s policies that cut America off from both economic opportunity and critical security partnerships, warning that these policies risk, “turning America from being the indispensable nation into being the unreliable nation.” 

Before being elected to the U.S. Senate, Kim represented New Jersey’s Third Congressional District in the U.S. House and was a career public servant working in national security and diplomacy at the White House, State Department, and Pentagon. Learn more about Senator Kim’s service on behalf of New Jersey here.  

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