Gallagher Committee Shames University to Quit Confucius Institute

Alfred University announced on June 14, 2023, that it will close its Confucius Institute, a move resulting from an investigation by the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, chaired by Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI).

The Select Committee's investigation, initiated on May 31, scrutinized the University’s partnership with a Chinese university known for conducting advanced hypersonic weapons-related research for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). In the committee's initial letter to Alfred University, Rep. Gallagher highlighted the security risks involved in the University's academic collaboration with China.

“To put it plainly, you are conducting advanced, hypersonic weapons-related research while actively partnering with a Chinese university that performs similar research for the PLA. We seek additional information regarding this alarming matter and Alfred’s commitment to safeguard sensitive U.S. military research,” Rep. Gallagher wrote.

In response to the impending closure of the Confucius Institute by June 30, 2023, Chairman Gallagher added:

“I’m glad to see Alfred University finally doing the right thing and shutting down its Confucius Institute," he said. "But the Confucius Institute is only one tool in the CCP’s toolbox—it will use research partnerships, talent programs, and other initiatives to gain access to sensitive research and technologies that fuel the PLA’s advancement."

Chairman Gallagher said the committee would continue its efforts to ensure American taxpayer dollars do not support any research collaborations that could potentially be exploited by the Chinese Communist Party for its military or other purposes.