Vice President Kamala Harris is set to conclude her term with a significant around-the-world trip, with stops planned in Singapore, Bahrain, and Germany. The trip, scheduled from Jan. 13 to Jan. 17, will provide Harris with a final opportunity to address key U.S. foreign policy challenges before the transition to the new administration.
Accompanying the Vice President on this journey will be second gentleman Doug Emhoff, highlighting the importance of the visit. While Harris has not yet revealed her future plans following the presidential election, this extensive travel itinerary suggests a potential interest in maintaining a global presence. Speculation also surrounds the possibility of Harris running for governor of California.
The trip holds special significance as Harris aims to express gratitude and engage directly with U.S. servicemembers deployed overseas, a role she has cherished during her time as vice president. The presence of U.S. troops at all three destinations underscores the strategic importance of these visits.
In Singapore, Harris will visit Changi Naval Base and hold discussions with local leaders, emphasizing the country's crucial role in addressing regional challenges, particularly those involving China and the South China Sea.
Her next stop in Bahrain will include a visit to the headquarters of the U.S. 5th Fleet, operating in the Persian Gulf. The fleet's activities in safeguarding regional security, including protecting Israel from threats and monitoring shipping in the region, will be highlighted during the visit.
The final leg of the trip will take Harris to Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, where she will engage with U.S. Air Force personnel and underscore the importance of NATO in deterring Russian aggression, particularly in light of past events such as the invasion of Ukraine.
Having previously visited Germany and Singapore, Bahrain will mark the 22nd country visited by Harris during her term. The trip aims to reaffirm the United States' commitment to global leadership for the security and prosperity of the American people, as emphasized by Harris' deputy national security adviser.
