H.R. 3332: Pacific Partnership Act

This bill, titled the Pacific Partnership Act, aims to enhance the engagement of the United States with the Pacific Islands region. It outlines a series of objectives and strategies that focus on strengthening ties, promoting security, and fostering economic development in these island nations. Below are some key components of what the bill seeks to address:

Recognition of Connections

The bill acknowledges the long-standing historical, cultural, and strategic ties the United States shares with the Pacific Islands. It highlights the importance of these relationships based on shared values and interests.

U.S. Policy Development

The United States government is encouraged to create a comprehensive policy that:

• Promotes peace, security, and prosperity while respecting the sovereignty of Pacific nations.
• Supports sustainable development and manages natural resources effectively.
• Enhances resilience to natural disasters and other shared challenges.
• Encourages democratic governance, rule of law, and protection of human rights.

Collaboration with Regional Partners

The bill stresses the need for collaboration with existing regional frameworks and nations, including:

• Multilateral institutions like the Pacific Islands Forum.
• Allied countries such as Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Taiwan.

Strategy for Pacific Partnership

The President is tasked with developing a Strategy for Pacific Partnership by 2026 and updating it by 2030. This strategy will focus on:

• Goals for diplomatic, defense, and economic engagement.
• Assessing threats to the region, including natural disasters and illegal activities.
• Creating plans to address these threats and allocate necessary resources.
• Establishing mechanisms for coordination with other nations and organizations.

Extension of Immunities

The bill allows for the possibility of extending certain diplomatic immunities to the Pacific Islands Forum, similar to those extended to other international organizations in which the U.S. participates.

Consultation with Allies

The President is encouraged to maintain a formal consultative process with allies to ensure that assistance programs in the Pacific Islands are complementary and aligned with regional goals.

Reporting Requirements

The bill mandates the annual update of specific reports regarding regional issues, including transnational crime and the challenges faced by Pacific Islands. This includes updating existing reports on narcotics control, fisheries management, and human trafficking.

Definitions

The bill defines key terms such as "appropriate congressional committees," which includes the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, as well as what constitutes the "Pacific Islands" and their region.

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