To the Editor:

The recent meeting between Chinese president Xi Jinping and Russian president Vladimir Putin should give us pause. Although we often view these diplomatic meetings as purely symbolic and good for little more than a photo opportunity, the developing ties between these two nations have enormous significance for U.S. interests in the Asia-Pacific region.

At a time when our aircraft carrier program faces serious cuts, the Chinese and Russian governments are planning joint naval exercises in the East Asia Sea and negotiating possible transfers of military technology. We cannot remain passive observers as China pursues increasingly aggressive military policies.

Congressman Randy Forbes (R-Va.) recently took an important step in addressing these developments by introducing legislation that would improve tracking of Chinese naval projects as well as strengthen our ties with East Asian allies like Japan and South Korea. I don’t always share the congressman’s views, but his work on China deserves serious consideration. The Chinese navy is already in the process of developing advanced nuclear submarines and guided-missile frigates, and assistance from the Russian military could only hasten its progress.

Please join Congressman Randy Forbes, the Rotary Club, and the Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce on June 5 at the Cypress Cove Country Club for an update on these and other important issues being addressed by Congress in these difficult times. Call the Chamber for a reservation at 562-4900. The cost for the luncheon meeting with OUR Congressman is $20.

Come support Congressman Forbes and receive the latest factual updates.

Jim Councill
Franklin