S. 2736 — what changed
Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018
From Reported in Senate to Engrossed in Senate. 15 sections amended, 25 added, and 14 removed between Reported in Senate and Engrossed in Senate.
Sec. 2 Findings
Congress makes the following findings:
The Indo-Pacific region—
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represents nearly 1/2 50 percent of the global population;
is home to some of the most dynamic economies in the world; and
poses security challenges that threaten to undermine United States national security interests, regional peace, and global stability.
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The core tenants tenets of the United States-backed international system are being challenged with increasingly coercive behavior, including—challenged, including by—
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China’s illegal construction and militarization of artificial features in the South China Sea;Sea and coercive economic practices;
North Korea’s acceleration of its nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities; and
the increased presence throughout Southeast Asia of the Islamic State (referred to in this Act as “ISIS”) and other international terrorist organizations that threaten the United States.
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The economic order in the Indo-Pacific region continues to transform, presenting both opportunities and challenges to United States economic interests.
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The United States has a fundamental interest in defending human rights and promoting the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific region. Although many countries in that the region have improved the treatment of their citizens, several Indo-Pacific countries governments continue to be commit human rights abusers abuses and there are serious concerns with political place restrictions on basic human rights and political and civil liberties throughout the Indo-Pacific region.liberties.
Without strong leadership from the United States, the international system, fundamentally rooted in the rule of law, may wither, to the detriment of United States, regional, and global interests. It is imperative that the United States continue to play a leading role in the Indo-Pacific region by—
defending peace and security;
advancing economic prosperity; and
promoting respect for fundamental human rights.
In 2017, the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy of the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate held a series of hearings on United States leadership in the Indo-Pacific region, in which—
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experts, including Representative Randy Forbes, Ambassador Robert Gallucci, Ms. Tami Overby, Dr. Robert Orr, Ambassador Derek Mitchell, Ambassador Robert King, Mr. Murray Hiebert, and others detailed the security challenges, economic opportunities, and imperatives of promoting the rule of law, human rights, and democracy, in the Indo-Pacific region; and
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Dr. Graham Allison, the Douglas Dillon Professor of Government at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, testified, “As realistic students of history, Chinese leaders recognize that the role the U.S. United States has played since World War II as the architect and underwriter of regional stability and security has been essential to the rise of Asia, including China itself. But they believe that as the tide that brought the U.S. United States to Asia recedes, America must leave with it. Much as Britain’s role in the Western Hemisphere faded at the beginning of the twentieth century, so must America’s role in Asia as the region’s historic superpower resumes its place.”.
The United States National Security Strategy (referred to in this Act as the “National Security Strategy”), which was released in December 2017, states—
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“A geopolitical competition between free and repressive visions of world order is taking place in the Indo-Pacific region. The region, which stretches from the west coast of India to the western shores of the United States, represents the most populous and economically dynamic part of the world. The U.S. United States interest in a free and open Indo-Pacific extends back to the earliest days of our republic.”; and
“Our vision for the Indo-Pacific excludes no nation. We will redouble our commitment to established alliances and partnerships, while expanding and deepening relationships with new partners that share respect for sovereignty, fair and reciprocal trade, and the rule of law. We will reinforce our commitment to freedom of the seas and the peaceful resolution of territorial and maritime disputes in accordance with international law. We will work with allies and partners to achieve complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula and preserve the non-proliferation regime in Northeast Asia.”.
Sec. 3 Statement of policy on United States engagement in the Indo-Pacific region
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It is the policy of the United States to develop, and to commit to, a long-term strategic vision and a comprehensive, multifaceted, and principled United States policy for the Indo-Pacific region that—
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preserves peace through strength by securing the vital national security interests of the United States;
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promotes American prosperity by advancing the economic interests of the United States;
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advances American influence by reflecting the values of the American people and universal human rights; and
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accords with and supports the rule of law and international norms.
Sec. 101 Policy
added It is the policy of the United States to develop and commit to a long-term strategic vision and a comprehensive, multifaceted, and principled United States policy for the Indo-Pacific region that—
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In general— There are authorized to be appropriated for the Department of State, the United States Agency for International Development, and, as appropriate, the Department of Defense $1,500,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023, which shall be used—
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to advance United States foreign policy interests and objectives in the Indo-Pacific region in recognition of the value of diplomatic initiatives and programs in the furtherance of United States strategy;
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to bolster the United States military presence and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region for the purpose of deterring and defending against provocative actions, including by improving the defense infrastructure and critical munitions stockpiles of the United States Armed Forces;
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to improve the defense capacity of partner nations to resist coercion and to deter and defend against security threats, including through foreign military financing and international military education and training programs;
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to conduct regular bilateral and multilateral exercises, particularly with our most highly-capable allies and partners, to meet strategic challenges, including—
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certain destabilizing activities of the People’s Republic of China; and
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emerging threats, such as the nuclear and ballistic missile programs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
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to build new counterterrorism partnership programs in Southeast Asia to combat the growing presence of ISIS and other terrorist organizations that pose a significant threat to the United States, our allies, and our citizens’ interests abroad; and
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to increase maritime domain awareness programs in Southeast Asia—
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by expanding the scope of naval and coast guard training efforts with Southeast Asian countries;
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through intelligence sharing and other information-sharing efforts; and
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through multilateral exercises, including by involving Japan, Australia, and India in such efforts and exercises.
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Countering China’s influence To undermine the international system— Amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (a) shall be made available for United States Government efforts to counter the strategic influence of the People’s Republic of China, in accordance with secures the strategy required under section 7043(e)(3) vital national security interests of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, United States and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2014 (division K of Public Law 113–76; 128 Stat. 536) our allies and in consultation with the appropriate committees of Congress.partners;
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Burma— None of the amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (a) may be made available for the programs, initiatives, or interactions that may benefit the defense sector of the Republic of the Union promotes American prosperity and economic interests by advancing economic growth and development of Myanmar (historically known as “Burma”).a rules-based Indo-Pacific economic community;
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Philippines— Amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (a) may not be made available for counternarcotics assistance (other than maritime programs) for the Philippine National Police unless the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the appropriate committees of Congress that advances American influence by reflecting the Government values of the Philippines has adopted American people and is implementing a counternarcotics strategy that complies with international norms of due process.universal human rights;
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Cambodia— Amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (a) may not be made available for certain United States assistance programs that benefit the Government of Cambodia.supports functional problem-solving regional architecture; and
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Defined term— In this section, accords with and supports the term appropriate committees rule of Congress means—law and international norms.
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the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate;
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the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate;
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the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives; and
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the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
Sec. 102 Diplomatic strategy
added It is the diplomatic strategy of the United States—
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United States-Japan alliance— The United States Government—
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is committed to the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the United States and Japan, done at Washington, January 19, 1960, and subsequent security agreements;
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recognizes the vital role of the alliance between the United States and Japan in promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region; and
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calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and Japan.
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United States-Republic of Korea alliance— The to work with United States Government—allies—
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to confront common challenges;
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is committed to the Mutual Defense Treaty Between the United States and the Republic of Korea, done at Washington October 1, 1953, and subsequent security agreements;improve information sharing;
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recognizes the vital role of the alliance between the United States and South Korea in promoting peace to increase defense investment and security in the Indo-Pacific region; andtrade;
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calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and the Republic of Korea.to ensure interoperability; and
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to strengthen shared capabilities;
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United States-Australia alliance— The United States Government—to strengthen relationships with partners who—
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share mutual respect for the rule of law;
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is committed to the Security Treaty Between Australia and the United States of America, done at San Francisco September 1, 1951, agree with fair and subsequent security agreements between these 2 nations;reciprocal trade; and
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recognizes understand the vital role importance of civil society, the alliance between rule of law, the United States free and Australia in promoting peace reliable flow of information, and security in the Indo-Pacific region; andtransparent governance;
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calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and Australia.
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United States-Philippines alliance— The United States Government is committed to the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Republic of the Philippines and support functional problem-solving regional architecture, including through the United States Association of America, done at Washington August 30, 1951, Southeast Asian Nations, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, and subsequent bilateral security agreements, including the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, done at Manila April 28, 2014.East Asia Summit;
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Thailand— The to emphasize the commitment of the United States Government is committed to—States—
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to freedom of navigation under international law;
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the Agreement Respecting Military Assistance Between the Government of the United States to promote peaceful resolutions of America maritime and the Government of Thailand, done at Bangkok October 17, 1950;territorial disputes; and
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the Southeast Asia Collective Defense Treaty, done at Manila September 8, 1954; andto expand security and defense cooperation with allies and partners, as appropriate;
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to pursue diplomatic measures to achieve complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization of North Korea;
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to improve civil society, strengthen the rule of law, and advocate for transparent governance;
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to develop and grow the economy through private sector partnerships between the United States and Indo-Pacific partners;
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to pursue multilateral and bilateral trade agreements in a free, fair, and reciprocal manner and build a network of partners in the Indo-Pacific committed to free markets;
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to work with and encourage Indo-Pacific countries—
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to pursue high-quality and transparent infrastructure projects;
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to maintain unimpeded commerce, open sea lines or air ways, and communication; and
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to seek the peaceful resolution of disputes; and
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to sustain a strong military presence in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthen security relationships with allies and partners throughout the region.
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all subsequent bilateral security agreements, including the Joint Vision Statement for the Thai-U.S. Defense Alliance, issued in Bangkok November 15, 2012.
Sec. 103 United States-China relationship
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In general— The United States Government—
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expresses grave concerns with Chinese actions that seek—
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to further constrain space for civil society within China; and
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to undermine a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region;
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encourages China to play a constructive role in world affairs by demonstrating consistent respect for the rule of law and international norms;
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seeks to build a positive, cooperative, and comprehensive relationship with China—
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by expanding areas of cooperation; and
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by addressing areas of disagreement, including over human rights, economic policies, and maritime security; and
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is committed to working with China on shared regional and global challenges, especially—
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upholding and strengthening the rules-based international system; and
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the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula.
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Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the United States should—
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welcome China’s decision to change course and pursue responsible engagement on global issues;
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encourage China to play a constructive role in the Indo-Pacific region and globally; and
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continue to call out Chinese actions that undermine the rules-based international system.
Sec. 104 United States-India strategic partnership
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In general— The United States Government—
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recognizes the vital role of the strategic partnership between the United States and India in promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region;
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calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and India; and
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is committed to—
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the New Framework for the United States-India Defense Relationship, done at Arlington, Virginia June 28, 2005;
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the United States-India Defense Technology and Trade Initiative, launched in 2012;
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the Joint Strategic Vision for the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region, announced on January 25, 2015; and
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all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements.
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India as major defense partner— Congress makes the following findings:
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Section 1292(a)(1)(A) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 130 Stat. 2559; 22 U.S.C. 2751 note) requires the recognition of India as a major defense partner.
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The designation of India as a major defense partner, which is unique to India—
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institutionalizes the progress made to facilitate defense trade and technology sharing between the United States and India;
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elevates defense trade and technology cooperation between the United States and India to a level commensurate with the closest allies and partners of the United States;
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facilitates technology sharing between the United States and India, including license-free access to a wide range of dual-use technologies, after taking into account national security concerns; and
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facilitates joint exercises, coordination on defense strategy and policy, military exchanges, and port calls in support of defense cooperation between the United States and India.
Sec. 105 United States-ASEAN strategic partnership
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It is the sense of the Senate that the United States should—
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support and affirm the elevation of the United States-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) relationship to a strategic partnership;
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recommit to ASEAN centrality by helping build a strong, stable, politically cohesive, economically integrated, and socially responsible community of nations that has common rules, norms, procedures, and standards which are consistent with international law and the principles of a rules-based Indo-Pacific community;
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urge ASEAN to continue its efforts to foster greater integration among its members;
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recognize the value of—
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ASEAN engagement with economic, political, and security partners within Asia and elsewhere, including Australia, Canada, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, and Taiwan; and
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strategic economic initiatives, such as the U.S.-ASEAN Connect, which demonstrate a commitment to ASEAN and the ASEAN Economic Community and build upon economic relationships in the Indo-Pacific region;
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support efforts by the nations comprising ASEAN—
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to address maritime and territorial disputes in a constructive manner; and
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to pursue claims through peaceful, diplomatic, and legitimate regional and international arbitration mechanisms, consistent with international law, including through the adoption of a code of conduct in the South China Sea to further promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region;
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support efforts by United States partners and allies in ASEAN—
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to enhance maritime capability and maritime domain awareness;
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to protect unhindered access to, and use of, international waterways in the Asia-Pacific region that are critical to ensuring the security and free flow of commerce;
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to counter piracy;
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to disrupt illicit maritime trafficking activities such as the trafficking of persons, goods, and drugs; and
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to enhance the maritime capabilities of countries or regional organizations to respond to emerging threats to maritime security in the Asia-Pacific region; and
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urge ASEAN member states to develop a common approach to reaffirm the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s ruling with respect to the case between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China.
Sec. 106 United States-Republic of Korea-Japan trilateral security partnership
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It is the sense of Congress that the President should develop a strategy to deepen the trilateral security cooperation between the United States, South Korea, and Japan, including missile defense, intelligence-sharing, and other defense-related initiatives.
Sec. 107 Quadrilateral security dialogue
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It is the sense of Congress that—
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the security dialogue between the United States, Australia, India, and Japan is vital to addressing pressing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region in order to promote—
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a rules-based order;
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respect for international law; and
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a free and open Indo-Pacific; and
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such a dialogue is intended to augment, rather than to replace, current mechanisms.
Sec. 108 Enhanced security partnerships in Southeast Asia
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Indonesia— The United States Government is committed to—
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the U.S.-Indonesia Comprehensive Partnership, done in Washington November 9, 2010;
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the Joint Statement on Comprehensive Defense Cooperation, done in Washington October 26, 2015; and
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all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements between the United States and Indonesia.
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Malaysia— The United States Government is committed to—
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the U.S.-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership, done at Putrajaya April 27, 2014;
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the Joint Statement for Enhancing the Comprehensive Partnership between the United States of America and Malaysia, done in Washington September 13, 2017; and
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all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements between the United States and Malaysia.
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Singapore— The United States Government is committed to—
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the Strategic Framework Agreement Between the United States of America and the Republic of Singapore for a Closer Cooperation Partnership in Defense and Security, done at Washington July 12, 2005;
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the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, done at Arlington, Virginia December 7, 2015; and
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all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements between the United States and Singapore.
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Vietnam— The United States Government is committed to—
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the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership, done at Washington December 16, 2013;
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the U.S.-Vietnam Joint Vision Statement on Defense Relations, done at Hanoi on June 1, 2015;
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the U.S.-Vietnam Joint Vision Statement, done at Washington May 31, 2017; and
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all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements between the United States and Vietnam.
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Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the United States should deepen the diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation, especially in the areas of maritime security and counterterrorism, with Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam.
Sec. 109 Commitment to Taiwan
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United States commitment to Taiwan— It is the policy of the United States to faithfully enforce all existing United States Government commitments to Taiwan, as enshrined in the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 (Public Law 96–8) and the Six Assurances agreed to by President Ronald Reagan in July 1982.
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Arms sales to Taiwan— The President shall conduct regular transfers of defense articles to Taiwan that are tailored to meet the existing and likely future threats from the People’s Republic of China, including supporting the efforts of Taiwan to develop and integrate asymmetric capabilities, including undersea warfare and air defense capabilities, into its military forces.
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Travel— The President shall authorize the travel of high-level United States officials to Taiwan, in accordance with the Taiwan Travel Act (Public Law 115–135).
Sec. 110 North Korea strategy
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Findings— Congress makes the following findings:
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The Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has flagrantly defied the international community by illicitly developing its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, in violation of United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1718 (2006), 1874 (2009), 2087 (2013), 2094 (2013), 2270 (2016), 2321 (2016), 2371 (2017), 2375 (2017), and 2397 (2017).
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The Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea engages in gross human rights abuses against its own people and citizens of other countries, including the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan.
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The United States is committed to pursuing a peaceful denuclearization of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea through a policy of maximum pressure and engagement, in close concert with its partners.
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Policy of the United States with respect to sanctions against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea—
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Statement of policy— It is the policy of the United States to continue to impose sanctions with respect to activities of the Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, persons acting for or on behalf of such government, or other persons in accordance with Executive Order 13687 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to imposing additional sanctions with respect to North Korea), Executive Order 13694 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to blocking the property of certain persons engaging in significant malicious cyber-enabled activities), Executive Order 13722 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to blocking the property of the Government of North Korea and the Workers’ Party of Korea, and prohibiting certain transactions with respect to North Korea), and Executive Order 13810 (82 Fed. Reg. 44705; relating to imposing additional sanctions with respect to North Korea), as such Executive orders are in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act, until the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is no longer engaged in the illicit activities described in such Executive orders, including actions in violation of United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1718 (2006), 1874 (2009), 2087 (2013), 2094 (2013), 2270 (2016), 2321 (2016), 2371 (2017), and 2375 (2017).
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Report— Not later than 30 days after terminating any sanction with respect to the activities of the Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, a person acting for or on behalf of such government, or any other person provided for in an Executive order listed in subsection (a), the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees regarding the cessation of any illicit activity that violates United Nations Security Council Resolution 1718 (2006), 1874 (2009), 2087 (2013), 2094 (2013), 2270 (2016), 2321 (2016), 2371 (2017), or 2375 (2017) by such Government or person.
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Rule of construction— Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit the authority of the President pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.).
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Policy of the United States with respect to negotiation on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs— It is the policy of the United States that the objective of negotiations with respect to the nuclear and ballistic missile programs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea be the complete, verifiable, and irreversible dismantlement of such programs.
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Report on a strategy To address the threats posed by, and the capabilities of, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea—
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In general— Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 180 days thereafter, the Secretary of State, or a designee of the Secretary, shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees that describes actions taken by the United States to address the threats posed by, and the capabilities of, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
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Elements— Each report required under paragraph (1) shall include—
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a summary of ongoing efforts by the United States to identify strategies and policies, including an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of such strategies and policies—
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to achieve peaceful denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula; and
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to eliminate the threat posed by the ballistic missile program of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
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an assessment of—
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potential road maps toward peaceful denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the elimination of the nuclear and ballistic missile threats posed by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; and
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specific actions that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea would need to take for each such roadmap to become viable;
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a summary of the United States strategy to increase international coordination and cooperation, whether unilaterally, bilaterally, or multilaterally, including sanctions enforcement and interdiction, to address the threat posed by the nuclear and ballistic missile programs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, which shall include—
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a description of the actions taken by the Secretary of State, or designees of the Secretary, to consult with governments around the world, with the purpose of inducing such governments to diplomatically and economically isolate the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
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a description of the actions taken by such governments to implement measures to diplomatically and economically isolate the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
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a list of countries with governments that the Secretary has determined are noncooperative with respect to implementing measures to diplomatically and economically isolate the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; and
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a plan of action to engage, and increase cooperation with respect to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, with the governments of the countries on the list described in clause (iii); and
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an assessment of the adequacy of the national export control regimes of countries that are members of the United Nations, and multilateral export control regimes, that are necessary to enforce sanctions imposed with respect to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea pursuant to United Nations Security Council resolutions; and
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an action plan to encourage and assist countries in adopting and using authorities necessary to enforce export controls required by United Nations Security Council resolutions.
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Form of report— Each report required under this subsection shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
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Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
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representatives of the United States shall use the voice and vote of the United States in all international organizations, as appropriate, to advocate for the expulsion of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea from such organizations, until such time as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea meets its commitments under United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1718 (2006), 1874 (2009), 2087 (2013), 2094 (2013), 2270 (2016), 2321 (2016), 2371 (2017), 2375 (2017), and 2397 (2017);
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the Secretary of State may take such actions as are necessary to induce countries to take measures to diplomatically and economically isolate the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, including—
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reducing the diplomatic presence in the United States of countries with governments that the Secretary has determined are noncooperative with respect to implementing measures to diplomatically and economically isolate the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; and
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reducing the diplomatic presence of the United States in such countries; and
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the Secretary of State may terminate or reduce United States foreign assistance to countries enabling the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
Sec. 111 New Zealand and the Pacific islands
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It is the sense of Congress that—
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the United States supports strengthening diplomatic, economic, and the security relationship with New Zealand;
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the United States supports strong United States engagement with the nations of the South Pacific, including Fiji, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu;
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the United States recognizes the strong historical, strategic and cultural ties to these countries;
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the United States should deepen its cooperation with New Zealand and the nations of the South Pacific in areas of mutual interest, including—
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fisheries and marine resource conservation;
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environmental challenges and resilience;
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global health;
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development and trade; and
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people-to-people ties; and
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the United States should provide robust foreign assistance to the Pacific islands.
Sec. 112 Freedom of navigation and overflight; promotion of international law
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Freedom of navigation— It is the policy of the United States—
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to conduct, as part of its global Freedom of Navigation Program, regular freedom of navigation and overflight operations in the Indo-Pacific region, in accordance with applicable international law; and
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to promote genuine multilateral negotiations to peacefully resolve maritime disputes in the South China Sea, in accordance with applicable international law.
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Joint Indo-Pacific diplomatic strategy— It is the sense of Congress that the President should develop a diplomatic strategy that includes working with United States allies and partners to conduct joint maritime training and freedom of navigation operations in the Indo-Pacific region, including the East China Sea and the South China Sea, in support of a rules-based international system benefitting all countries.
Sec. 113 Combating terrorism in Southeast Asia
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Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of National Intelligence, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, and other appropriate officials, shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress that contains an assessment of the current and future capabilities and activities of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist groups in Southeast Asia that pose a significant threat to the United States, its allies, and its citizens interests abroad.
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Elements— The report required under subsection (a) shall include—
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the current number of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters in Southeast Asia;
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the estimated number of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters expected to return to Southeast Asia from fighting in the Middle East;
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the current resources available to combat the threat of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters in Southeast Asia, and the additional resources required to combat such threat;
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a detailed assessment of the capabilities of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters to operate effectively in countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia;
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a description of the capabilities and resources of governments in Southeast Asia to counter violent extremist groups; and
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a list of additional United States resources and capabilities that the Department of Defense recommends providing to governments in Southeast Asia to combat violent extremist groups.
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Definitions— In this section—
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the term appropriate committees of Congress means—
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the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate;
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the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate;
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the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives; and
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the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives; and
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the term ISIS means the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
Sec. 114 Cybersecurity cooperation
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Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that there should be robust cybersecurity cooperation between the United States and nations in the Indo-Pacific region—
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to effectively respond to cybersecurity threats, including state-sponsored threats;
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to share best practices to combat such threats; and
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to strengthen resilience against misinformation and propaganda.
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Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary—
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to build capacity for responding to cybersecurity threats originating in the Indo-Pacific region; and
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to enhance cooperation between the United States and nations in such region for combating such threats.
Sec. 115 Nuclear nonproliferation and arms control in the Indo-Pacific region
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In general— The United States Government—
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recognizes that the spread of nuclear weapons, and their means of delivery, constitutes a threat to international peace and security;
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seeks to peacefully address the unique challenge posed to regional and global stability by the illicit use, and the proliferation to and from North Korea, of sensitive nuclear and missile technologies;
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notes efforts by China and Russia—
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to expand and modernize their respective nuclear arsenals; and
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to pursue sales of commercial nuclear technologies; and
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recognizes the legitimate pursuit by many countries in the Indo-Pacific region of nuclear energy for a variety of peaceful applications.
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Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the United States Government should undertake all reasonable and appropriate efforts to pursue effective arms control and nuclear nonproliferation policies in the Indo-Pacific region to limit the further spread of potentially dangerous and destabilizing conventional and nuclear weapons.
Sec. 201 Authorization of appropriations
changed
Findings—Defined term— Congress makes In this section, the following findings:term appropriate committees of Congress means—
changed
According to the United States Chamber Committee on Appropriations of Commerce, by 2030—the Senate;
removed
66 percent of the global middle class population will be in Asia; and
removed
59 percent of middle class consumption will be in Asia.
changed
According to the Asian Development Bank—Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate;
removed
Asian countries have signed 140 bilateral or regional trade agreements; and
removed
75 more trade agreements with Asian countries are under negotiation or concluded and awaiting entry into force.
changed
The United States has signed free trade agreements with 3 nations in the Indo-Pacific region, namely Australia, Singapore, and the Republic Committee on Finance of Korea.the Senate;
changed
The member states the Committee on Appropriations of the Association House of Southeast Asian Nations (referred to in this section as “ASEAN”), as a group—Representatives;
removed
represent the fifth largest economy in the world; and
removed
have a combined gross domestic product of $2,400,000,000,000.
changed
The economy comprised of ASEAN member states grew by 66 percent between 2006 and 2015, and the total value Committee on Foreign Affairs of bilateral trade between the United States and ASEAN member states has increased by 78 percent since 2004.House of Representatives; and
changed
In 2015, the trade surplus Committee on Ways and Means of goods sold by companies in ASEAN member states to consumers in the United States was $77,000,000,000, while the United States 2015 trade surplus House of services provided to consumers in ASEAN member states was $8,000,000,000.Representatives.
removed
According to U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, Inc., goods and services exported from the United States to ASEAN member states support 550,000 jobs in the United States.
removed
According to the Business Roundtable—
removed
the United States, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam were responsible for a combined 40 percent of global gross domestic product in 2017; and
removed
United States bilateral trade with the other nations referred to in subparagraph (A) supports 15,600,000 jobs in the United States.
removed
According to the United States National Security Strategy—
removed
ASEAN and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) “remain centerpieces of the Indo-Pacific’s regional architecture and platforms for promoting an order based on freedom”; and
removed
the United States will “work with partners to build a network of states dedicated to free markets and protected from forces that would subvert their sovereignty.”.
changed
Sense Authorization of Congress—appropriations— It is There are authorized to be appropriated for the sense Department of Congress that trade between State, the United States and the nations in the Indo-Pacific region is vitally important to Agency for International Development, and, as appropriate, the United States economy, United States exports, and jobs in Department of Defense, $1,500,000,000 for each of the United States.fiscal years 2019 through 2023, which shall be used—
added
to advance United States foreign policy interests and objectives in the Indo-Pacific region in recognition of the value of diplomatic initiatives and programs in the furtherance of United States strategy;
added
to improve the defense capacity and resiliency of partner nations to resist coercion and deter and defend against security threats, including through foreign military financing and international military education and training programs;
added
to conduct regular bilateral and multilateral engagements, particularly with the United States’ most highly-capable allies and partners, to meet strategic challenges, including—
added
certain destabilizing activities of the People’s Republic of China; and
added
emerging threats, such as the nuclear and ballistic missile programs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
added
to build new counterterrorism partnership programs in Southeast Asia to combat the growing presence of ISIS and other terrorist organizations that pose a significant threat to the United States, its allies, and its citizens’ interests abroad;
added
to help partner countries strengthen their democratic systems, with a focus on good governance;
added
to ensure that the regulatory environments for trade, infrastructure, and investment in partner countries are transparent, open, and free of corruption;
added
to encourage responsible natural resource management in partner countries, which is closely associated with economic growth; and
added
to increase maritime domain awareness programs in South Asia and Southeast Asia—
added
by expanding the scope of naval and coast guard training efforts with Southeast Asian countries;
added
by expanding cooperation with democratic partners in South Asia, including Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka;
added
through intelligence sharing and other information-sharing efforts; and
added
through multilateral engagements, including by involving Japan, Australia, and India in such efforts.
added
Countering China’s influence to undermine the international system— Amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (b) shall be made available for United States Government efforts to counter the strategic influence of the People’s Republic of China, in accordance with the strategy required under section 7043(e)(3) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2014 (division K of Public Law 113–76; 128 Stat. 536) and in consultation with the appropriate committees of Congress.
added
Burma— None of the amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (b) may be made available for International Military Education and Training and Foreign Military Financing Programs for the armed forces of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar (historically known as “Burma”).
added
Philippines—
added
In general— None of the amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (b) may be made available for counternarcotics assistance for the Philippine National Police unless the Secretary of State determines and reports to the appropriate committees of Congress that the Government of the Philippines has adopted and is implementing a counternarcotics strategy that is consistent with international human rights standards, including investigating and prosecuting individuals who are credibly alleged to have ordered, committed, or covered up extrajudicial killings and other gross violations of human rights in the conduct of counternarcotics operations.
added
Exception— The limitation under paragraph (1) shall not apply to funds made available—
added
for drug demand reduction, maritime programs, or transnational interdiction programs; or
added
to support for the development of such counternarcotics strategy, after consultation with the appropriate committees of Congress.
added
Cambodia— None of the amounts authorized to be appropriated pursuant to subsection (b) may be made available for United States assistance programs that benefit the Government of Cambodia unless the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the appropriate congressional committees that the requirements under section 7043(b)(1) of division K of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (Public Law 115–141) have been met.
Sec. 202 Treaty alliances in the Indo-Pacific region
added
United States-Japan alliance— The United States Government—
added
is committed to the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the United States and Japan, done at Washington, January 19, 1960, and all related and subsequent bilateral security agreements and arrangements concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act;
added
recognizes the vital role of the alliance between the United States and Japan in promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region; and
added
calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and Japan.
removed
Congress supports—
changed
United States-Republic of Korea alliance— multilateral, bilateral, or regional trade agreements that increase The United States employment and expand the economy;Government—
added
is committed to the Mutual Defense Treaty Between the United States and the Republic of Korea, done at Washington October 1, 1953, and all related and subsequent bilateral security agreements and arrangements concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act;
added
recognizes the vital role of the alliance between the United States and South Korea in promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region; and
added
calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and the Republic of Korea.
changed
United States-Australia alliance— formal economic dialogues that include concrete outcomes;The United States Government—
added
is committed to the Security Treaty Between Australia and the United States of America, done at San Francisco September 1, 1951, and all related and subsequent bilateral security agreements and arrangements concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act;
added
recognizes the vital role of the alliance between the United States and Australia in promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region; and
added
calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and Australia.
changed
United States-Philippines alliance— high-standard bilateral investment treaties The United States Government is committed to the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States of America, done at Washington August 30, 1951, and nations in all related and subsequent bilateral security agreements and arrangements concluded on or before the Indo-Pacific region;date of the enactment of this Act, including the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, done at Manila April 28, 2014.
changed
Thailand— negotiations of the Trade in Services Agreement and the Environmental Goods Agreement that include several major Asian economies; andThe United States Government is committed to—
added
the Agreement Respecting Military Assistance Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Thailand, done at Bangkok October 17, 1950;
added
the Southeast Asia Collective Defense Treaty, done at Manila September 8, 1954; and
added
all related and subsequent bilateral security agreements and arrangements concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act, including the Joint Vision Statement for the Thai-United States Defense Alliance, issued in Bangkok November 15, 2012.
removed
the proactive, strategic, and continuing high-level use of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, the East Asia Summit, and the Group of 20 to pursue United States economic objectives in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 203 United States-China relationship
added
In general— The United States Government—
added
expresses grave concerns with Chinese actions that seek—
added
to further constrain space for civil society and religion within China; and
added
to undermine a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region;
added
encourages China to play a constructive role in world affairs by demonstrating consistent respect for the rule of law and international norms;
added
seeks to build a positive, cooperative, and comprehensive relationship with China—
added
by expanding areas of cooperation; and
added
by addressing areas of disagreement, including over human rights, economic policies, and maritime security; and
added
is committed to working with China on shared regional and global challenges, especially—
added
upholding and strengthening the rules-based international system; and
added
the denuclearization of North Korea.
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the United States should—
added
welcome a decision by China to change course and pursue a responsible results-oriented relationship with the United States and engagement on global issues;
added
encourage China to play a constructive role in the Indo-Pacific region and globally; and
added
continue to call out Chinese actions that undermine the rules-based international system.
removed
The President, acting through the United States Trade Representative, is authorized to negotiate a comprehensive economic engagement framework with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Sec. 204 United States-India strategic partnership
changed
In general— The President is encouraged to produce a robust and comprehensive trade capacity building and trade facilitation strategy for the Indo-Pacific region.United States Government—
added
recognizes the vital role of the strategic partnership between the United States and India in promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region;
added
calls for the strengthening and broadening of diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the United States and India; and
added
is committed to—
added
the New Framework for the United States-India Defense Relationship, done at Arlington, Virginia on June 28, 2005;
added
the United States-India Defense Technology and Trade Initiative, launched in 2012;
added
the Joint Strategic Vision for the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region, announced on January 25, 2015;
added
the United States-India Joint Statement on Prosperity Through Partnership, issued on June 26, 2017; and
added
all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements and arrangements concluded as of the date of the enactment of this Act.
changed
Authorization of appropriations—India as major defense partner— There are authorized to be appropriated such amounts as may be necessary to carry out subsection (a).Congress makes the following findings:
added
Section 1292(a)(1)(A) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 130 Stat. 2559; 22 U.S.C. 2751 note) requires the recognition of India as a major defense partner.
added
The designation of India as a major defense partner, which is unique to India—
added
institutionalizes the progress made to facilitate defense trade and technology sharing between the United States and India;
added
elevates defense trade and technology cooperation between the United States and India to a level commensurate with the closest allies and partners of the United States;
added
facilitates technology sharing between the United States and India, including license-free access to a wide range of dual-use technologies, after taking into account national security concerns; and
added
facilitates joint exercises, coordination on defense strategy and policy, military exchanges, and port calls in support of defense cooperation between the United States and India.
Sec. 205 United States-ASEAN strategic partnership
changed
In general—Sense of Congress— The President It is encouraged to impose penalties on all entities found to be complicit in the theft sense of Congress that the United States intellectual property, in accordance with applicable law, including commercial cyber-enabled theft.should—
added
support and reaffirm the elevation of the United States-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (referred to in this section as “ASEAN”) relationship to a strategic partnership;
added
recommit to ASEAN centrality by helping build a strong, stable, politically cohesive, economically integrated, and socially responsible community of nations that has common rules, norms, procedures, and standards which are consistent with international law and the principles of a rules-based Indo-Pacific community;
added
urge ASEAN to continue its efforts to foster greater integration among its members;
added
recognize the value of—
added
ASEAN engagement with economic, political, and security partners within Asia and elsewhere, including Australia, Canada, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, and Taiwan; and
added
strategic economic initiatives, such as activities under the United States–ASEAN Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement and the United States-ASEAN Connect, which demonstrate a commitment to ASEAN and the ASEAN Economic Community and build upon economic relationships in the Indo-Pacific region;
added
support efforts by the nations comprising ASEAN—
added
to address maritime and territorial disputes in a constructive manner; and
added
to pursue claims through peaceful, diplomatic, and legitimate regional and international arbitration mechanisms, consistent with international law, including through the adoption of a code of conduct in the South China Sea to further promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region;
added
support efforts by United States partners and allies in ASEAN—
added
to enhance maritime capability and maritime domain awareness;
added
to protect unhindered access to, and use of, international waterways in the Asia-Pacific region that are critical to ensuring the security and free flow of commerce;
added
to counter piracy;
added
to disrupt illicit maritime trafficking activities such as the trafficking of persons, goods, and drugs; and
added
to enhance the maritime capabilities of countries or regional organizations to respond to emerging threats to maritime security in the Asia-Pacific region; and
added
urge ASEAN member states to develop a common approach to reaffirm the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s ruling with respect to the case between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China.
added
Report on strategic framework for engagement with ASEAN—
added
In general— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following 5 years, the Secretary of State, in consultation with other Federal agencies, shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees on a strategic framework to administer programs, projects, and activities of the United States to support diplomatic and economic engagement between the United States and ASEAN member countries for the 10-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act.
removed
Annual report— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the President shall submit a report to Congress that—
changed
Elements— describes The report required under paragraph (1) shall address the efforts following elements of the United States Government to combat intellectual property and commercial cyber-enabled theft in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly the People’s Republic of China; andstrategy:
added
Promoting commercial engagement between the United States and member countries of ASEAN.
added
Helping member countries of ASEAN use sustainable, efficient, and innovative technologies in their respective energy sectors.
added
Supporting economic conditions in member countries of ASEAN that promote innovation, the creation of new businesses, sustainable growth, and the education of the region’s future innovators, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.
added
Working with member countries of ASEAN to improve the policy and regulatory environment for growth, trade, innovation, and investment.
added
Supporting the regional integration objectives of member countries of ASEAN under the ASEAN Economic Community.
added
Partnership opportunities with the governments of other countries friendly to the United States that have committed to a high set of standards for investment and development with ASEAN, as determined by the Secretary of State.
removed
includes a country-by-country assessment of priority areas for United States engagement and capacity building assistance.
removed
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated such amounts as may be necessary to sponsor bilateral and multilateral activities designed to build capacity in the identified priority areas described in the annual report required under subsection (b).
Sec. 206 United States-Republic of Korea-Japan trilateral security partnership
added It is the sense of Congress that the President should develop a strategy to deepen the trilateral security cooperation between the United States, South Korea, and Japan, including missile defense, intelligence-sharing, and other defense-related initiatives.
removed
Indo-Pacific energy strategy—
removed
Strategy— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, shall create a United States Government strategy to increase United States exports of energy to the nations in the Indo-Pacific region.
removed
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated such amounts as may be necessary to carry out paragraph (1).
removed
Reliable energy partnerships— It is the sense of Congress that—
removed
the President should establish bilateral and regional initiatives to increase energy security in the Indo-Pacific region;
removed
the United States should authorize the supply of liquefied natural gas to the nations in the Indo-Pacific region; and
removed
the United States should create a dedicated program, in partnership with the private sector and multilateral institutions, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, to promote universal access to reliable electricity in Myanmar (historically known as “Burma”).
Sec. 207 Quadrilateral security dialogue
changed
The Secretary of State, in cooperation with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, should increase regional engagement in It is the areas sense of environment, health, education, and infrastructure development with the Lower Mekong countries, including—Congress that—
changed
assisting the security dialogue between the United States, Australia, India, and Japan is vital to develop programs that focus on forecasting environmental address pressing security challenges and resilience;in the Indo-Pacific region in order to promote—
added
a rules-based order;
added
respect for international law; and
added
a free and open Indo-Pacific; and
changed
assisting with transnational cooperation on sustainable uses of forest and water resources with the goal of preserving the biodiversity of the Mekong Basin and access such a dialogue is intended to safe drinking water;augment, rather than to replace, current mechanisms.
removed
assisting with education enrollment and broadband internet connectivity, particularly English training and connectivity in rural communities; and
removed
improving global health in the Lower Mekong countries, including—
removed
reducing the HIV/AIDS infection rate; and
removed
helping regional partners to track and treat malaria and tuberculosis.
Sec. 208 Enhanced security partnerships in Southeast Asia
added
added
Indonesia— The United States Government is committed to—
added
the United States-Indonesia Comprehensive Partnership, done in Washington November 9, 2010;
added
the Joint Statement on Comprehensive Defense Cooperation, done in Washington October 26, 2015; and
added
all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements and arrangements between the United States and Indonesia concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act.
added
Malaysia— The United States Government is committed to—
added
the United States-Malaysia Comprehensive Partnership, done at Putrajaya April 27, 2014;
added
the Joint Statement for Enhancing the Comprehensive Partnership between the United States of America and Malaysia, done in Washington September 13, 2017; and
added
all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements and arrangements between the United States and Malaysia concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act.
added
Singapore— The United States Government is committed to—
added
the Strategic Framework Agreement Between the United States of America and the Republic of Singapore for a Closer Cooperation Partnership in Defense and Security, done at Washington July 12, 2005;
added
the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, done at Arlington, Virginia December 7, 2015; and
added
all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements and arrangements between the United States and Singapore concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act.
added
Vietnam— The United States Government is committed to—
added
the United States-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership, done at Washington December 16, 2013;
added
the United StatesVietnam Joint Vision Statement on Defense Relations, done at Hanoi on June 1, 2015;
added
the United StatesVietnam Joint Vision Statement, done at Washington May 31, 2017; and
added
all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements and arrangements between the United States and Vietnam concluded on or before the date of the enactment of this Act.
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the United States should deepen diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation, especially in the areas of maritime security and counterterrorism, with Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam.
Sec. 209 Commitment to Taiwan
added
added
United States commitment to Taiwan— It is the policy of the United States—
added
to support the close economic, political, and security relationship between Taiwan and the United States;
added
to faithfully enforce all existing United States Government commitments to Taiwan, consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 (Public Law 96–8), the 3 joint communiques, and the Six Assurances agreed to by President Ronald Reagan in July 1982; and
added
to counter efforts to change the status quo and to support peaceful resolution acceptable to both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
added
Arms sales to Taiwan— The President should conduct regular transfers of defense articles to Taiwan that are tailored to meet the existing and likely future threats from the People’s Republic of China, including supporting the efforts of Taiwan to develop and integrate asymmetric capabilities, as appropriate, including mobile, survivable, and cost-effective capabilities, into its military forces.
added
Travel— The President should encourage the travel of highlevel United States officials to Taiwan, in accordance with the Taiwan Travel Act (Public Law 115–135).
Sec. 210 North Korea strategy
added
added
Findings— Congress makes the following findings:
added
The Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has flagrantly defied the international community by illicitly developing its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, in violation of United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1718 (2006), 1874 (2009), 2087 (2013), 2094 (2013), 2270 (2016), 2321 (2016), 2371 (2017), 2375 (2017), and 2397 (2017).
added
The Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea engages in gross human rights abuses against its own people and citizens of other countries, including the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan.
added
The United States is committed to pursuing a peaceful denuclearization of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea through a policy of maximum pressure and engagement, in close concert with its partners.
added
Policy of the United States with respect to sanctions against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea—
added
Statement of policy— It is the policy of the United States to continue to impose sanctions with respect to activities of the Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, persons acting for or on behalf of such government, or other persons in accordance with Executive Order 13551 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to blocking property of certain persons with respect to North Korea), Executive Order 13687 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to imposing additional sanctions), Executive Order 13694 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to blocking the property of certain persons engaging in significant malicious cyberenabled activities), Executive Order 13722 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; relating to blocking the property of the Government of North Korea and the Workers’ Party of Korea, and prohibiting certain transactions with respect to North Korea), and Executive Order 13810 (82 Fed. Reg. 44705; relating to imposing additional sanctions with respect to North Korea), as such Executive orders are in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act, until the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is no longer engaged in the illicit activities described in such Executive orders, including actions in violation of the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1).
added
Report— Not later than 30 days after terminating any sanction with respect to the activities of the Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, a person acting for or on behalf of such government, or any other person provided for in an Executive order listed in subsection (a), the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees justifying the termination of the sanction and explaining the relationship between such termination and the cessation of any illicit activity that violates any of the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1) by such Government or person. The reporting requirement under this paragraph shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
added
Rule of construction— Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit the authority of the President pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.).
added
Policy of the United States with respect to negotiation on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs— It is the policy of the United States that the objective of negotiations with respect to the nuclear and ballistic missile programs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea be the complete, verifiable, and irreversible dismantlement of such programs.
added
Report on a strategy to address the threats posed by, and the capabilities of, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea—
added
In general— Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 180 days thereafter for the following 5 years, the Secretary of State, or a designee of the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees that describes actions taken by the United States to address the threats posed by, and the capabilities of, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
added
Elements— Each report required under paragraph (1) shall include—
added
a summary of ongoing efforts by the United States to identify strategies and policies, including an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of such strategies and policies—
added
to achieve peaceful denuclearization of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; and
added
to eliminate the threat posed by the ballistic missile program of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
added
an assessment of—
added
potential road maps toward peaceful denuclearization of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the elimination of the nuclear and ballistic missile threats posed by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; and
added
specific actions that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea would need to take for each such roadmap to become viable;
added
a summary of the United States strategy to increase international coordination and cooperation, whether unilaterally, bilaterally, or multilaterally, including sanctions enforcement and interdiction, to address the threat posed by the nuclear and ballistic missile programs of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, which shall include—
added
a description of the actions taken by the Secretary of State, or designees of the Secretary, to consult with governments around the world, with the purpose of inducing such governments to fully implement the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1);
added
a description of the actions taken by such governments to fully implement United Nations Security Council resolutions related to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea;
added
a list of countries with governments that the Secretary has determined are noncooperative with respect to implementing the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1); and
added
a plan of action to engage, and increase cooperation with respect to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, with the governments of the countries on the list described in clause (iii);
added
an assessment of the adequacy of the national export control regimes of countries that are members of the United Nations, and multilateral export control regimes, that are necessary to enforce sanctions imposed with respect to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea pursuant to the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1); and
added
an action plan to encourage and assist countries in adopting and using authorities necessary to enforce export controls required by United Nations Security Council resolutions.
added
Form of report— Each report required under this subsection shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex.
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that—
added
representatives of the United States shall use the voice and vote of the United States in all international organizations, as appropriate, to advocate for the expulsion of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea from such organizations, until such time as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea meets its commitments under the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1); and
added
the Secretary of State should work to induce countries to meet their commitments under the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1), including by considering appropriate adjustments to the diplomatic posture and foreign assistance of the United States with governments that the Secretary has determined are noncooperative with respect to implementing the United Nations Security Council resolutions referred to in subsection (a)(1).
Sec. 211 New Zealand
addedadded The United States Government is committed to—
added
the Wellington Declaration, signed on November 5, 2010, which reaffirmed close ties and outlined future practical cooperation between the United States and New Zealand;
added
the Washington Declaration, signed on June 19, 2012, which strengthened the defense relationship by providing a framework and strategic guidance for security cooperation and defense dialogues; and
added
all related and subsequent bilateral and security agreements and arrangements between the United States and New Zealand concluded on or before the date of enactment of this Act.
Sec. 212 The Pacific Islands
added
added
In general— It is the sense of Congress that the United States should—
added
support strong United States engagement with the nations of the South Pacific, including Fiji, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu;
added
deepen its cooperation with the nations of the South Pacific in areas of mutual interest, including—
added
fisheries and marine resource conservation;
added
environmental challenges and resilience;
added
global health;
added
development and trade; and
added
people-to-people ties; and
added
continue to provide assistance to the Pacific Islands, as appropriate, to support the rule of law, good governance, and economic development.
added
United States-Compacts of Free Association— It is the sense of Congress that the Compacts of Free Association entered between the United States and the Freely Associated States (Republic of Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau)—
added
enhance the strategic posture of the United States in the Western Pacific;
added
reinforce United States regional commitment;
added
preempt potential adversaries from establishing positional advantage; and
added
further self-governance, economic development, and self-sufficiency of the Freely Associated States.
Sec. 213 Freedom of navigation and overflight; promotion of international law
added
added
Freedom of navigation— It is the policy of the United States—
added
to conduct, as part of its global Freedom of Navigation Program, regular freedom of navigation, and overflight operations in the Indo-Pacific region, in accordance with applicable international law; and
added
to promote genuine multilateral negotiations to peacefully resolve maritime disputes in the South China Sea, in accordance with applicable international law.
added
Joint Indo-Pacific diplomatic strategy— It is the sense of Congress that the President should develop a diplomatic strategy that includes working with United States allies and partners to conduct joint maritime training and freedom of navigation operations in the Indo-Pacific region, including the East China Sea and the South China Sea, in support of a rules-based international system benefitting all countries.
Sec. 214 Combating terrorism in Southeast Asia
added
added
Definitions— In this section:
added
Appropriate committees of Congress— The term appropriate committees of Congress means—
added
the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate;
added
the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate;
added
the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives; and
added
the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
added
ISIS— The term ISIS means the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
added
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of National Intelligence, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, and other appropriate Federal officials, shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress that contains an assessment of the current and future capabilities and activities of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist groups in Southeast Asia that pose a significant threat to the United States, its allies, and its citizens interests abroad.
added
Elements— The report required under subsection (b) shall include—
added
the current number of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters in Southeast Asia;
added
an estimate of the number of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters expected to return to Southeast Asia from fighting in the Middle East;
added
an analysis of the amounts and sources of ISIS-linked, al Qaeda-linked, and other various extremist group affiliated-fighters in Southeast Asia;
added
the current resources available to combat the threat of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters in Southeast Asia, and the additional resources required to combat such threat;
added
a detailed assessment of the capabilities of ISIS-linked, al-Qaeda-linked, and other violent extremist group-affiliated fighters to operate effectively in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia;
added
a description of the capabilities and resources of governments in Southeast Asia to counter violent extremist groups; and
added
a list of additional United States resources and capabilities that the Department of Defense and the Department of State recommend providing to governments in Southeast Asia to combat violent extremist groups.
Sec. 215 Cybersecurity cooperation
added
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that there should be robust cybersecurity cooperation between the United States and nations in the Indo-Pacific region—
added
to effectively respond to cybersecurity threats, including state-sponsored threats;
added
to share best practices to combat such threats;
added
to strengthen resilience against cyberattacks, misinformation, and propaganda; and
added
to strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure.
added
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated $100,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023 to enhance cooperation between the United States and Indo-Pacific nations for the purposes of combatting cybersecurity threats.
Sec. 216 Nonproliferation and arms control in the Indo-Pacific region
added
added
In general— The United States Government—
added
recognizes that the spread of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction, and their means of delivery, constitutes a threat to international peace and security;
added
seeks to peacefully address the unique challenge posed to regional and global stability by the illicit use, and the proliferation to and from North Korea, of sensitive nuclear and missile technologies, and other weapons of mass destruction;
added
notes efforts by China and Russia—
added
to expand and modernize their respective nuclear arsenals, including through significant research and development resources in hypersonic glide vehicles and other advanced technologies; and
added
to pursue sales of commercial nuclear technologies; and
added
recognizes the legitimate pursuit by many countries in the Indo-Pacific region of nuclear energy for a variety of peaceful applications.
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the United States Government should undertake all reasonable and appropriate efforts to pursue effective arms control and nonproliferation policies in the Indo-Pacific region to limit the further spread of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.
Sec. 301 Findings; sense of Congress
added
Findings— Congress makes the following findings:
added
According to the United States Chamber of Commerce, by 2030—
added
66 percent of the global middle class population will be living in Asia; and
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59 percent of middle class consumption will take place in Asia.
added
According to the Asian Development Bank—
added
Asian countries have signed 140 bilateral or regional trade agreements; and
added
75 more trade agreements with Asian countries are under negotiation or concluded and awaiting entry into force.
added
Free trade agreements between the United States and 3 nations in the Indo-Pacific region (Australia, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea) have entered into force.
added
The member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (referred to in this section as “ASEAN”), as a group—
added
represent the fifth largest economy in the world; and
added
have a combined gross domestic product of $2,400,000,000,000.
added
The economy comprised of ASEAN member states grew by 66 percent between 2006 and 2015, and the total value of bilateral trade between the United States and ASEAN member states has increased by 78 percent since 2004.
added
In 2015, the trade surplus of goods sold by companies in ASEAN member states to consumers in the United States was $77,000,000,000, while the United States 2015 trade surplus of services provided to consumers in ASEAN member states was $8,000,000,000.
added
According to US-ASEAN Business Council, goods and services exported from the United States to ASEAN member states support 550,000 jobs in the United States.
added
According to the Business Roundtable—
added
the United States, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam were responsible for a combined 40 percent of global gross domestic product in 2017; and
added
United States bilateral trade with the other nations referred to in subparagraph (A) supports 15,600,000 jobs in the United States.
added
According to the United States National Security Strategy—
added
ASEAN and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation “remain centerpieces of the Indo-Pacific’s regional architecture and platforms for promoting an order based on freedom”; and
added
the United States will “work with partners to build a network of states dedicated to free markets and protected from forces that would subvert their sovereignty.”.
removed
Congress finds that—
changed
Sense of Congress— It is the promotion sense of human rights Congress that trade between the United States and respect for democratic values the nations in the Indo-Pacific region is in vitally important to the United States national security interests;economy, United States exports, and jobs in the United States.
removed
there are serious concerns with the rule of law and civil liberties in Cambodia, China, North Korea, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, which have all been identified by Freedom House as “Not Free”;
removed
there have been recent disturbing human rights developments in—
removed
Burma (Myanmar), which has been identified by Freedom House as “Not Free”; and
removed
the Philippines, which has been identified by Freedom House as “Partly Free”; and
removed
according to the National Security Strategy, the United States—
removed
will “support, with our words and actions, those who live under oppressive regimes and who seek freedom, individual dignity, and the rule of law”;
removed
“may use diplomacy, sanctions, and other tools to isolate states and leaders who threaten our interests and whose actions run contrary to our values”; and
removed
“will support efforts to advance women’s equality, protect the rights of women and girls, and promote women and youth empowerment programs.”.
Sec. 302 Trade negotiations, multilateral agreements, and regional economic summits
changed
The President is encouraged to pursue additional efforts to combat trafficking in persons and human slavery in the Indo-Pacific region.Congress supports—
added
multilateral, bilateral, or regional trade agreements that increase United States employment and expand the economy;
added
formal economic dialogues that include concrete, verifiable, and measured outcomes;
added
high-standard bilateral investment treaties between the United States and nations in the Indo-Pacific region;
added
negotiations of the Trade in Services Agreement and the Environmental Goods Agreement that include several major Asian economies; and
added
the proactive, strategic, and continuing high-level use of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, the East Asia Summit, and the Group of 20 to pursue United States economic objectives in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 303 United States-ASEAN economic partnership
changed
The Secretary President should seek to develop to negotiate a comprehensive economic engagement framework with the Association of State should—Southeast Asian Nations.
removed
establish high-level bilateral and regional dialogues with nations in the Indo-Pacific region regarding human rights and religious freedom violations;
removed
establish or support robust, people-to-people exchange programs in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly programs engaging young leaders; and
removed
establish educational exchanges and capacity-building programs emphasizing civil society development.
Sec. 304 Trade capacity building and trade facilitation
changed
Sanctions—In general— The President is authorized encouraged to impose sanctions, in accordance with applicable law, including financial penalties produce a robust and visa bans, on any individual or entity that—comprehensive trade capacity building and trade facilitation strategy, including leveling the playing field for American companies competing in the Indo-Pacific region.
removed
violates human rights or religious freedoms; or
removed
engages in censorship activities.
changed
Suspension Authorization of foreign assistance—appropriations— The President is authorized, in accordance with applicable law, There are authorized to terminate, suspend, or otherwise alter United States economic assistance be appropriated such amounts as may be necessary to any country that has engaged in serious violations of human rights or religious freedoms.carry out subsection (a).
Sec. 305 Intellectual property protection
added
In general— The President should takes steps to strengthen the enforcement of United States intellectual property laws as a top priority, including taking all appropriate action to deter and punish commercial cyber-enabled theft of intellectual property.
added
Annual report— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following 5 years, the President shall submit a report to Congress that—
removed
Promotion of democracy in the Indo-Pacific region—
removed
In general— There is authorized to be appropriated $150,000,000, for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023, to promote democracy, strengthen civil society, human rights, rule of law, transparency, and accountability in the Indo-Pacific region.
removed
Democracy in china— Amounts appropriated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be made available for United States Government efforts, led by the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, to promote democracy, the rule of law, and human rights in the People’s Republic of China.
removed
Tibet— Amounts appropriated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be made available for nongovernmental organizations to support activities preserving cultural traditions and promoting sustainable development, education, and environmental conservation in Tibetan communities in the Tibet Autonomous Region and in other Tibetan communities in China, India, and Nepal.
removed
Freedom of information to North Korea—
removed
In general— There is authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000, for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023, to implement programs to enhance freedom of information efforts with regard to North Korea.
changed
Report— Not later than 180 days after describes the date efforts of the enactment of this Act, United States Government to combat intellectual property violations and every 180 days thereafter through September 30, 2023, commercial cyber-enabled theft in the Broadcasting Board of Governors shall submit a report to Congress that describes Indo-Pacific region, particularly the implementation People’s Republic of the programs described in paragraph (1).China; and
added
includes a country-by-country assessment of priority areas for United States engagement and capacity building assistance.
added
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated to the United States Trade Representative such amounts as may be necessary to sponsor bilateral and multilateral activities designed to build capacity in the identified priority areas described in the annual report required under subsection (b).
Sec. 306 Energy programs and initiatives
added
added
Indo-Pacific energy strategy—
added
Strategy— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following 5 years, the President shall establish a comprehensive, integrated, multiyear strategy to encourage the efforts of Indo-Pacific countries to implement national power strategies and cooperation with United States energy companies and the Department of Energy national laboratories to develop an appropriate mix of power solutions to provide access to sufficient, reliable, and affordable power in order to reduce poverty, drive economic growth and job creation, and to increase energy security in the Indo-Pacific region.
added
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated $1,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023 to carry out paragraph (1).
added
Reliable energy partnerships— It is the sense of Congress that the United States should explore opportunities to partner with the private sector and multilateral institutions, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, to promote universal access to reliable electricity in the Indo-Pacific region, including Myanmar (historically known as “Burma”).
Sec. 307 Lower Mekong initiative
added
added
In general— The Secretary of State, in cooperation with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, should increase regional engagement in the areas of environment, health, education, and infrastructure development with the Lower Mekong countries, including—
added
assisting in the development of programs that focus on forecasting environmental challenges and resilience;
added
assisting with transnational cooperation on sustainable uses of forest and water resources with the goal of preserving the biodiversity of the Mekong Basin and access to safe drinking water;
added
assisting with education enrollment and broadband internet connectivity, particularly English training and connectivity in rural communities; and
added
improving global health in the Lower Mekong countries, including—
added
reducing the HIV/AIDS infection rate; and
added
helping regional partners to track and treat malaria and tuberculosis.
added
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through 2023, the Secretary of State, in cooperation with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, shall submit a report to Congress that includes—
added
a list and evaluation of Lower Mekong Initiative activities since its inception in 2009;
added
a strategy for any increased regional engagement and measures of success for the activities described in paragraph (1); and
added
an accounting of funds used to execute Lower Mekong Initiative activities.
Sec. 308 Sense of Congress on economic growth and natural resource conservation
addedadded It is the sense of Congress that the President should encourage the governments of countries in the Indo-Pacific region and United States private sector interests with operations and investments in the region to deploy agriculture practices that—
added
conserve natural resources; and
added
preserve culturally and ecological valuable lands and water bodies.
Sec. 309 Sense of Congress in support of women’s economic rights
addedadded It is the sense of the Congress that the United States should—
added
support activities that secure private property rights and land tenure for women in developing countries in Asia, including—
added
establishing legal frameworks to give women equal rights to own, register, use, profit from, and inherit land and property;
added
improving legal literacy to enable women to exercise the rights described in subparagraph (A); and
added
increasing the capacity of law enforcement and community leaders to enforce such rights;
added
work with Asian civil society, governments, and multilateral organizations to increase the capability of disadvantaged women and girls in Asia—
added
to realize their rights;
added
to determine their life outcomes;
added
to assume leadership roles; and
added
to influence decision-making in their households, communities, and societies; and
added
seek to expand access to appropriate financial products and services for women-owned micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in Asia.
Sec. 401 Findings
addedadded Congress makes the following findings:
added
The promotion of human rights and respect for democratic values in the Indo-Pacific region is in the United States’ national security interest.
added
Continued support for human rights, democratic values, and good governance is critical to a successful United States diplomatic strategy in the Indo-Pacific.
added
Strong support for human rights and democracy in the Indo-Pacific region is critical to efforts to reduce poverty, build rule of law, combat corruption, reduce the allure of extremism, and promote economic growth.
added
There are serious concerns with the rule of law and civil liberties in Cambodia, China, North Korea, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, which have all been identified by Freedom House as “Not Free”.
added
There have been unacceptable human rights developments in—
added
Burma (Myanmar), which has been identified by Freedom House as “Partly Free”, and the Department of State has declared that the violence against the Rohingya constitutes ethnic cleansing;
added
the Philippines, which has been identified by Freedom House as “Partly Free”, and where there are continued disturbing reports of extra-judicial killings; and
added
China, where forced disappearances, extralegal detentions, invasive and omnipresent surveillance, and lack of due process in judicial proceedings remain troublesome.
added
according to the National Security Strategy, the United States—
added
will “support, with our words and actions, those who live under oppressive regimes and who seek freedom, individual dignity, and the rule of law”;
added
“may use diplomacy, sanctions, and other tools to isolate states and leaders who threaten our interests and whose actions run contrary to our values”; and
added
“will support efforts to advance women’s equality, protect the rights of women and girls, and promote women and youth empowerment programs”.
Sec. 402 Trafficking-in-persons
addedadded The President is encouraged to pursue additional efforts to combat trafficking in persons and human slavery in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 403 Freedom of the press
addedadded It is the sense of Congress that—
added
United States Government officials should lead by example—
added
by continuing to advocate for freedom of the press in the Indo-Pacific region; and
added
by engaging with the press corps at every appropriate opportunity; and
added
the United States should advocate and support a Ministerial to Advance Press Freedom in the Indo-Pacific to convene government and civil society, including journalists, to discuss and address the challenges facing press freedom in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 404 Democracy, human rights, and labor personnel
addedadded It is the sense of Congress that—
added
United States embassies and consulates in the Indo-Pacific region should have personnel, as appropriate, who are dedicated to reporting on and advancing United States democracy, human rights, labor, anti-corruption, and good governance policy interests; and
added
appropriate resources should be made available to carry out such activities.
Sec. 405 Bilateral and regional dialogues; people-to-people engagement
addedadded The Secretary of State should, as appropriate—
added
establish high-level bilateral and regional dialogues with nations in the Indo-Pacific region regarding human rights and religious freedom violations;
added
establish or support robust, people-to-people exchange programs in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly programs engaging young leaders; and
added
establish educational exchanges and capacity-building programs emphasizing civil society development.
Sec. 406 Association of Southeast Asian Nations Human Rights Strategy
added
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that the United States should continue to work with ASEAN to improve the capacity of ASEAN to address human rights, democracy, and good governance issues in Southeast Asia.
added
Strategy— Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, after consultation with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, shall submit a strategy to the appropriate congressional committees to increase cooperation with ASEAN to promote human rights, democracy, and good governance in Southeast Asia.
added
Contents— The strategy submitted under subsection (b) should include—
added
an assessment of the types of United States Government resources available to support increased cooperation; and
added
an assessment to identify entities within ASEAN that the United States could potentially support or partner with to promote human rights, democracy, and good governance in Southeast Asia.
Sec. 407 Freedom of information to North Korea
addedadded The President is encouraged to continue efforts to enhance freedom of information access with regard to North Korea.
Sec. 408 Sense of Congress on imposition of sanctions and suspension of United States assistance
added
added
Sanctions— It is the sense of Congress that the President should impose targeted financial penalties and visa ban sanctions, in accordance with applicable law and other relevant authorities, on any individual or entity that—
added
violates human rights or religious freedoms; or
added
engages in censorship activities.
added
Suspension of foreign assistance— It is the sense of Congress that the President should, in accordance with applicable law, terminate, suspend, or otherwise alter United States economic assistance to any country that has engaged in serious violations of human rights or religious freedoms.
Sec. 409 Authorization of appropriations
added
added
Promotion of democracy in the Indo-Pacific region—
added
In general— There is authorized to be appropriated $210,000,000, for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023, to promote democracy, strengthen civil society, human rights, rule of law, transparency, and accountability in the Indo-Pacific region, including for universities, civil society, and multilateral institutions that are focusing on education awareness, training, and capacity building.
added
Democracy in china— Amounts appropriated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be made available for United States Government efforts, led by the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, to promote democracy, the rule of law, and human rights in the People’s Republic of China.
added
Tibet— Amounts appropriated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be made available for nongovernmental organizations to support activities preserving cultural traditions and promoting sustainable development, education, and environmental conservation in Tibetan communities in the Tibet Autonomous Region and in other Tibetan communities in China, India, and Nepal.
Sec. 410 Indo-Pacific human rights defenders
added
added
Defined term— In this section, the term human rights defenders means individuals, working alone or in groups, who nonviolently advocate for the promotion and protection of universally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms if the advocacy of such issues may result in the risk of safety or life.
added
Sense of Congress— It is the sense of Congress that human rights defenders in the Indo-Pacific region have been facing increased difficulties with the rise of unprecedented crackdowns and conflicts.
added
Authorization of appropriations— There are authorized to be appropriated $1,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023 to provide critical assistance to human rights defenders through the Department of State’s Human Rights Defenders Fund.
added
Report— Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through 2023, the Secretary of State, in cooperation with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, shall submit a report to Congress that includes—
added
a list and evaluation of the Human Rights Defenders Fund activities since its inception;
added
a strategy for any increased regional engagement and measures of success for the activities described in paragraph (1); and
added
an accounting of funds used to execute the Human Rights Defender Fund activities.
Sec. 411 Young leaders people-to-people initiatives
addedadded There are authorized to be appropriated $25,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023 to support Indo-Pacific young leaders initiatives, including the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative, the ASEAN Youth Volunteers Program, and other people-to-people exchange programs that focus on building the capacity of democracy, human rights, and good governance activists in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sec. 412 Savings provision
addedadded Nothing in this Act may be construed as authorizing the use of military force.