Biden Nominates Top Asia Adviser Kurt Campbell as Deputy Secretary of State

President Joe Biden has nominated Kurt Campbell, a top adviser on Asia, to serve as the State Department's second-ranking diplomat. Campbell has played an important role in helping Biden reinvigorate the diplomatic grouping of the United States, Japan, Australia and India, and has helped to ease historic tensions between South Korea and Japan and shape America's approach to China.

President Joe Biden has nominated Kurt Campbell, a top adviser on Asia, to serve as the State Department's second-ranking diplomat, the White House announced on Wednesday. Campbell is currently deputy assistant to the president and coordinator for Indo-Pacific Affairs on the National Security Council. He has played an important role in helping Biden reinvigorate the diplomatic grouping of the United States, Japan, Australia, and India, and has helped to ease historic tensions between South Korea and Japan and shape America's approach to China.

Experienced Diplomat

If confirmed by the Senate, Campbell would replace Wendy Sherman, who retired in July. Campbell served in President Barack Obama's administration as the assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific Affairs. He also previously was deputy assistant defense secretary for Asian and Pacific Affairs, White House fellow at the Treasury Department, and director of the Democracy Office at the NSC during the Clinton administration.

Strong Support

Kurt is a tremendous asset," White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement. "His passion and commitment to our alliances and partnerships is unquestionably strengthening America's strategic position in the world and improving our ability to deal with shared challenges."

Challenges Ahead

Campbell's nomination comes at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and China. China has been accused of human rights abuses, intellectual property theft, and unfair trade practices. Campbell will likely play a key role in shaping the Biden administration's response to these challenges.

Kurt Campbell's nomination for deputy secretary of state is a sign of the Biden administration's commitment to a strong and engaged foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific region. Campbell's extensive experience and expertise in the region make him well-qualified for this important position.