Boise City Wire

U.S. Senator Jim Risch, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, delivered his opening remarks at a nominations hearing for three important positions in the State Department. The nominees included Dr. Dafna Hochman Rand for assistant secretary of State for democracy, human rights, and labor, Donna Ann Welton for ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, and Stephan A. Lang for U.S. coordinator for international communications and information policy.

Senator Risch emphasized the significance of the position of assistant secretary of State for democracy, human rights, and labor (DRL). He stressed that the DRL bureau must use its platform and the millions of dollars in assistance it manages to further U.S. national interests, rather than pursuing a social agenda. Senator Risch expressed concern about efforts to expand the definitions of 'human rights' and 'human rights defender', noting the importance of supporting internationally recognized human rights without losing focus.

Addressing Dr. Dafna Hochman Rand, the nominee for assistant secretary of State for DRL, Senator Risch stated, "I expect you will help ensure U.S. taxpayer dollars are directed to those most vulnerable, and to the most trusted partners who value working with the American people."

Moving on to the nomination of ambassador to Timor-Leste, Senator Risch emphasized the need to strengthen the partnership with Timor-Leste and countries like Australia. He highlighted the importance of infrastructure development and energy security, particularly in utilizing the country's resources in liquid natural gas. Senator Risch expressed concern about China's influence in infrastructure development and emphasized the need to counteract it.

Turning to the nomination of U.S. coordinator for international communications and information policy, Senator Risch commended Mr. Stephan A. Lang's experience in working on cyberspace at the State Department. He acknowledged the Department's lag in addressing these issues and expressed his eagerness to hear about how the Bureau for Cyberspace and Digital Policy can advance U.S. leadership on digital issues and reduce reliance on Chinese-made equipment in 5G networks worldwide.

In conclusion, Senator Risch thanked the chairman and expressed his expectation that the nominees would uphold U.S. interests in their respective roles. The full witness testimony is available on foreign.senate.gov.