WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris is set to conclude her term with an international journey that will take her to Singapore, Bahrain, and Germany, as confirmed by her office.
The trip is scheduled from January 13 to January 17 and represents a final chance for Harris to engage with pressing U.S. foreign policy issues before the inauguration of Donald Trump. Her husband, Doug Emhoff, is anticipated to accompany her.
Although Harris has not yet outlined her future plans following her unsuccessful presidential campaign, this extensive travel hints at her desire to maintain a presence on the global stage. There is also speculation surrounding the possibility of her candidacy for the governor of California.
Dean Lieberman, serving as Harris’ deputy national security adviser, expressed in a statement that “the vice president believes it is important to spend some of her final days in office showing gratitude and directly connecting with U.S. servicemembers stationed overseas, which she considers one of her greatest honors as vice president.”
All three destinations host U.S. military personnel, which is integral to Harris’ planned discussions.
In Singapore, Harris intends to visit Changi Naval Base and meet with prominent figures from the nation. Given Singapore’s strategic position within the Indo-Pacific area, it is a vital ally in tackling matters related to China, particularly those concerning navigation rights in the South China Sea.
Her next destination is Bahrain, where she will tour the U.S. 5th Fleet headquarters that operates in the Persian Gulf. This fleet plays a crucial role in defending against Iranian threats to Israel and overseeing maritime security operations against the Houthis in Yemen.
The final leg of her journey will take her to Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, which hosts a fleet of U.S. Air Force fighter jets. Here, she aims to address the significance of NATO’s role in countering Russian aggression following the invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago.
Including her earlier trips to Germany and Singapore, this will mark Harris’ 22nd country visit during her term.
Lieberman concluded by stating that “the vice president remains committed to the idea of a robust U.S. global leadership role, recognizing that it enhances the security and well-being of the American populace. She will reinforce this belief throughout her travels.”
