US-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act
Description
This bill would require the State Department to negotiate a regular trilateral dialogue between U.S., Japanese, and South Korean lawmakers.
Summary
What it does
This bill directs the Department of State to pursue negotiations with Japan and South Korea to establish a regular trilateral meeting framework known as the US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue. The proposed dialogue would consist of up to eight Members of Congress appointed to two-year terms to collaborate on shared interests and values. Additionally, the legislation provides specific requirements for the group's leadership, meeting frequency, financial expenditures, and reporting obligations.
Who is affected
This bill affects the Department of State, which is required to initiate negotiations with the governments of Japan and South Korea to establish a trilateral dialogue. It also impacts up to eight Members of Congress who would be appointed by congressional leadership to serve two-year terms as representatives in these inter-parliamentary meetings. Additionally, the governments of Japan and South Korea are identified as the intended partners for these cooperative diplomatic efforts.
Key provisions
- Establishment of the US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue. The Department of State must seek negotiations with Japan and South Korea to create a regular trilateral meeting framework intended to improve cooperation on shared interests and values.
- U.S. Delegation Membership and Appointment. The bill establishes a U.S. group for these meetings consisting of no more than eight Members of Congress. These members are to be appointed by congressional leadership to serve two-year terms.
- Operational Requirements and Oversight. The legislation mandates specific requirements for the group regarding meeting frequency, locations, and leadership structures. It also sets forth rules for handling gifts, donations, expenditures, and required reporting.
Fiscal impact
- H.R. 3429, US-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act· As ordered reported by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on July 22, 2025
Effective dates
Not applicable: Official Summary does not address effective dates
Relationship to existing law
Not applicable: Bill establishes wholly new authority with no reference to prior law
Stated purpose
The bill aims to facilitate closer cooperation between the United States, Japan, and South Korea on shared interests and values by establishing a regular trilateral meeting framework known as the US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue.