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Washington, DC – House Foreign Affairs Committee Lead Republican Michael McCaul (R-TX), and Reps. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) and Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) reintroduced the Promoting US International Leadership in 5G Act. The bill provides increased cooperation between the U.S. and our allies to identify and counter security risks posed by Chinese Communist Party-linked companies in 5G. In addition, the bill requires the State Department to develop a diplomatic strategy to increase engagement with partners at the international standards setting bodies. Lastly, the bill increases America’s economic competitiveness in the world, creating as many as three million American jobs. The bill passed the House last Congress. 

“The Chinese Communist Party does not hide the fact that they will do whatever it takes to become the prominent global power – especially by taking control of the world’s 5G networks. The CCP’s espionage tactics, theft of US intellectual property, and cyber hacking threaten our national security and our competitiveness in the international community. The U.S. must be the leader in 5G and continue to work with our allies to condemn the CCP’s malign practices,” said Lead Republican Michael McCaul.

“Leadership in 5G must be a national priority,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This legislation calls for the Secretary of State to provide assistance to 5G entities and greater coordination between allies to ensure the U.S. is at the head of the table when setting international standards. I am committed to enhancing our leadership on 5G to grow our economy and connect our families, communities, and businesses during this pandemic and beyond.” 

“As the Chinese Communist Party escalates its authoritarianism and malign behavior around the world, it is critical for the United States to provide the free world with an alternative to China’s dangerous, state-run technologies,” said Congressman Reschenthaler. “As a member of the China Task Force, I am proud to join Ranking Member McCaul to introduce the Promoting United States International Leadership in 5G Act. This legislation will increase our leadership and competitiveness in 5G, require engagement with our allies to set international standards and mitigation efforts to counter the security risks posed by Chinese technologies, and protect our shared national security interests for years to come.”

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