Researchers at U.S. based public policy institute The Heritage Foundation say it is time for Congress to align U.S. economic and national security interests and pass pending free trade agreements (FTA) with South Korea, Colombia and Panama.

In a report released on Tuesday, Ray Walser and Bruce Klingner said passing the FTA with South Korea “would strengthen U.S. commercial ties and broaden the bilateral relationship with South Korea beyond the existing military alliance.”

The report added that the trade accord would reinforce the notion of U.S. commitment to East Asia at a time when many perceive waning American interest, presence, and influence in the region.

The report also said that the passage of the trade deal would limit China’s “ability to extend its economic and political influence in the region.”

Walser and Klinger concluded that South Korea’s best defense against Chinese manipulation is a strong security and economic relationship with the U.S.