China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has expanded China’s economic and geopolitical reach across the globe

China 's foreign aid is strategically designed to achieve three main goals: securing essential natural resources (particularly oil and gas), gaining access to critical locations such as ports, and creating new markets for its goods and services.

The Cook Islands , situated in the Indo-Pacific , have voiced concerns that a withdrawal of USAID could open the door for China .

China is keen to take advantage of U.S. withdrawal in certain strategic areas.

There remains a crucial need for foreign aid to help countries navigate humanitarian crises and counter China ’s growing economic and geopolitical influence.

Marco Rubio , as secretary of state , understands the vital role foreign aid plays in diplomacy and national security.

Fears that China will swiftly assume the role USAID has vacated are greatly overstated.