Rep. Crane Applauds Northern Arizona University for Addressing National Security Concerns

Last month, a congressional report released by the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce flagged Northern Arizona University's (NAU) partnership with Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications (CQUPT) as a potential national security concern.

Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ), who serves on the House Committee on Homeland Security, followed up on the report by sending a letter to NAU urging the institution to review and terminate its partnership with CQUPT.

The report concluded that many joint programs between American and Chinese institutions have been used by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to advance military and technological objectives, recommending that these partnerships be terminated immediately.

Following an extensive review, NAU has made the decision to discontinue its 3+1 dual-degree program in Electrical Engineering with CQUPT. NAU also halted student recruitment, initiated a structured wind-down of the program, and entered contract termination discussions with full withdrawal expected within 90 days.

"I applaud Northern Arizona University's leadership in reviewing its international partnerships and ensuring that its programs align with national security initiatives," said Rep. Crane. "NAU's actions reflect a responsible approach to protecting students, faculty, and the integrity of U.S. research and education. We greatly appreciate their commitment to these shared values, as well as all they do for Northern Arizona."