Ernst, Cortez Masto Strengthen Strategic Relationships with Pacific Islands to Counter Chinese Aggression

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced a bipartisan bill to strengthen the United States’ strategic partnerships with Pacific Island Nations and combat the increasing Chinese aggression in the region. The Pacific Partnership Act would help the U.S. establish a clear, comprehensive strategy to support diplomatic, security, and economic relationships in the Indo-Pacific.

“In the face of Chinese aggression throughout the Indo-Pacific, our partners in the region are our first line of defense,” Ernst said. “We cannot allow the Chinese Communist Party to gain any foothold. By strengthening coordination with the Pacific Islands through this bipartisan legislation, we can counter the CCP’s malign influence and counter their actions to protect our own security.”

“Supporting our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific is critical to our long-term national security,” Cortez Masto said. “This legislation will help foster stability, security, and economic growth in the Pacific Islands, while encouraging better coordination on efforts to combat the Chinese government’s aggression in the region.”

The U.S. has a longstanding relationship with the Pacific Islands, and they play a crucial role in U.S. national security, facilitating military operations in support of American allies and partners. This bipartisan legislation would strengthen these crucial ties by creating a “Strategy for Pacific Partnership,” which would outline U.S. involvement in the Pacific Islands and highlight combined efforts to combat regional challenges.

Background:

Ernst’s work to increase cooperation with Pacific Island Nations to counter China’s malign influence was also included in the final National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024.

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