Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick Questions Secretary Rubio on Jordan's Economy and Haiti Aid

Jordan's Economic Assistance

• 🇯🇴 Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick questioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the status of U.S. economic assistance to Jordan.
• ⚠️ Jordan faces economic challenges and lingering extremist threats, with suspended economic assistance impacting its stability and that of Israel.
• 💡 Secretary Rubio stated that previously held-up programs, particularly involving water and diesel, have been approved and should resume soon.

U.S. Strategy for Haiti

• 🇭🇹 The designation of Haitian gangs as a foreign terrorist organization was intended to send a clear signal, but concerns exist about punishing the people rather than the gangs.
• 💰 Secretary Rubio acknowledged concerns that humanitarian groups may be extorted for passage, but stressed that the sanctions are not intended to punish them for paying such 'tolls'.
• 🗺️ Current international mechanisms are not built for the unique problem of a country being taken over by criminal enterprises, prompting a review of options.
• 🤝 Rubio expressed a desire to challenge the OAS to build a regional mission with partners to confront the crisis in Haiti.

MSS Mission and Gang Elimination

• 🇰🇪 The U.S. will continue to support the MSS mission, acknowledging the bravery of the Kenyans and the need for continuity in international efforts.
• 🚫 However, the MSS mission alone is not expected to solve the problem, and its mandate is currently defensive.
• 🎯 Rubio emphasized that the 30-40,000 gang members in Haiti need to be eliminated or jailed to achieve stability.
• 🛠️ Limitations include the mandate, lack of legal authority to actively pursue gangs, and insufficient capacity or equipment.

U.S. Engagement with Africa

• 🌍 Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick raised concerns about reduced diplomatic footprint in Africa, especially regarding energy security and mineral resources.
• 📈 She advocated for increasing funding for commercial diplomacy and financial institutions to support projects and de-risk African economies.
• 🌱 Rubio believes Africa seeks development over charity and that opportunities exist through the Development Finance Corporation and Millennium Challenge grants.
• ⚠️ He noted that the U.S. diplomatic footprint has not been reduced, except in the DRC due to riots outside the embassy.