Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, representing Texas and serving as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, convened a roundtable with African ambassadors and representatives in Washington, D.C. The meeting included delegates from Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Malawi, Ghana, Senegal, Djibouti, Madagascar, Zambia, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Uganda, Gabon, Togo, Mozambique, Mauritania, Ethiopia, and a representative from the African Union.

Senator Cruz emphasized his commitment to using his role to align U.S. policy towards Africa with American national security interests. He highlighted concerns about China's influence on the continent through its Belt and Road Initiative. "I intend to use my chairmanship of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy to ensure that America’s policy towards Africa is focused on advancing American national security interests across the continent," he stated.

Cruz also addressed energy issues during the meeting. "In this meeting, I also emphasized that national security is inextricably linked to energy," he noted. He sees potential for the United States to enhance economic ties by developing partnerships in energy and critical resources.

The Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy focuses on U.S.-Africa relations except for North African countries covered by other subcommittees. It addresses regional matters such as terrorism prevention and non-proliferation efforts while also having global health-related responsibilities.