Reaffirming the 40 years of relations between the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian…

Supports: (1) the elevation of the U.S.-Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) relationship to a strategic partnership; (2) cooperation with ASEAN to implement practical counter-terrorism and countering violent extremism measures; and (3) efforts by ASEAN member states and other regional states to address maritime and territorial disputes in a constructive manner and to pursue claims through diplomacy and the use of legitimate regional and international arbitration mechanisms.

Recognizes the value of ASEAN working with economic, political, and security partners to strengthen existing initiatives and develop new initiatives that address mutual strategic concerns.

Encourages enhancement of economic engagement between the United States and ASEAN through the elimination of trade barriers.

Urges all parties to maritime and territorial disputes in the Asia-Pacific region to: (1) exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that would undermine stability or escalate disputes through the use of coercion, intimidation, or military force; and (2) refrain from efforts to militarize uninhabited islands, reefs, shoals, and other features.

Reaffirms the U.S. commitment to: (1) promoting a rules-based order in the Asia-Pacific and economic growth, peace, human rights and stability in Southeast Asia; and (2) continuing joint efforts with ASEAN to halt human trafficking.

Written by the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service. All summary versions on Congress.gov