Lafayette Reporter

The US Congress has approved Senator John Kennedy's U.S. and Pacific Islands Forum Partnership Act as part of the annual National Defense Authorization Act. The bipartisan legislation aims to counter Communist China's aggression in the Indo-Pacific region by establishing a special envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF). The bill received support from 20 cosponsors, including lead co-sponsor Senator Brian Schatz.

Senator Kennedy emphasized the urgency of taking action against China's increasing economic and diplomatic pressure on the Pacific Island states. He stated, "Beijing puts more economic and diplomatic pressure on the Pacific Island states each day, and America is out of time to talk about strategic solutions without implementing them. Congress has voted to take a clear, easy step to counter China's communist antagonism by establishing a special envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum."

The Pacific Islands Forum is an international organization that includes Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations. China recognizes the strategic importance of these nations in the Indo-Pacific region and has already established its own special envoy to the PIF. In response, the United States named its own special envoy in October 2022, but the position was not legally codified. With the passage of this bill, the position of special envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum becomes permanent and will require confirmation by the Senate.

The establishment of a special envoy role will enhance diplomacy in the region and provide accountability to Congress. The special envoy will play a crucial role in addressing various threats posed by the communist regime, including economic, cyber security, and military concerns of the Pacific Islands. By deepening trust and increasing dialogue, the special envoy will contribute to countering China's aggressive actions in the region.

The legislation represents a significant step taken by the United States to counter China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region. It reflects the bipartisan recognition of the need to address the growing challenges posed by China's communist regime. With the establishment of a permanent special envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum, the United States can strengthen its engagement and support for the Pacific Island nations.

The text of the legislation and Senator Kennedy's op-ed in Defense News are available for further reference and understanding.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.kennedy.senate.gov/public/press-releases?ID=FC9B55B0-B4F5-453F-886F-0751771A9505