Technical corrections only. The later version (v3) includes the name of the House Clerk in the attestation and notes the bill's referral to the Senate, reflecting its legislative progression. No substantive policy changes were made between v2 and v3.
US-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Bera, Ami [D-CA-6]
- Committees
- Foreign Relations Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 9, 2026
Bottom line
This bill formalizes and strengthens trilateral parliamentary engagement between the U.S., Japan, and South Korea to address shared regional challenges and promote common values.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Secretary of State to negotiate an agreement with Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK) to establish a US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue. It also outlines the structure, membership, and operational rules for the United States Group within this dialogue, including appointment procedures for Members of Congress, meeting frequency, leadership rotation, and provisions for accepting private donations and annual reporting.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue this act builds on the historic Camp David summit, solidifying a critical trilateral partnership at the parliamentary level, enhancing regional security, economic prosperity, and democratic values in the Indo-Pacific. They emphasize the importance of sustained engagement to counter foreign information manipulation and promote freedom of navigation, ensuring legislative input into these vital relationships.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that establishing a new formal inter-parliamentary dialogue could create redundant bureaucratic structures, potentially duplicating efforts already undertaken by existing diplomatic channels or other bilateral parliamentary groups. Concerns could also be raised about the potential costs associated with maintaining such a group without clear, measurable benefits outweighing those costs, or the risk of entangling the U.S. in regional disputes through formal commitments.
The bill is concise and can be read quickly, allowing ample time for evaluation.
Section 2
Affirmation of Trilateral Partnership and Shared Vision
This section articulates Congress's belief that the U.S. should continue strengthening its trilateral cooperation with Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK). It highlights the significance of the 2023 Camp David summit, the 'Spirit of Camp David,' and calls for enhanced collaboration on maritime security, countering foreign information manipulation, and regular Trilateral Leaders' Summits. It also explicitly states that a regular Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue will deepen engagement.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this section clearly articulates the strategic importance of the U.S.-Japan-ROK alliance, providing a strong foundation and mandate for the subsequent establishment of the parliamentary dialogue. It reinforces existing commitments and signals continued U.S. dedication to regional stability.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against 'Sense of Congress' provisions as they are non-binding expressions of intent. However, some might argue that such statements, while symbolic, do not translate directly into concrete policy changes without further legislative action.
Tradeoffs
The primary tradeoff is between the symbolic value of a strong statement of intent and the need for concrete, actionable policy. This section prioritizes the former as a precursor to the latter.
Section 3(a)
Mandate for Dialogue Establishment
This provision mandates the Secretary of State, within 180 days of the Act's enactment, to initiate negotiations with Japan and the ROK to establish a formal written agreement for a US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue. The purpose of this dialogue is to foster closer cooperation on shared interests and values between the legislative bodies of the three nations.
Section 3(b)
Structure and Operations of the United States Group
This subsection details the formation and operation of the United States Group, which will represent the U.S. in the Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue once the trilateral agreement is established. It specifies that the group will consist of no more than 8 Members of Congress, with appointments split between the House and Senate leadership, ensuring representation from the Foreign Affairs and Foreign Relations committees. It also outlines meeting frequency (annually), location flexibility (U.S., abroad, or virtually), rotation of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson roles, and provisions for accepting private donations and annual reporting of expenditures.