WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) today introduced a measure in the House of Representatives underscoring support for the U.S.-Australia alliance. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, introduced an identical resolution with bipartisan support in the Senate.

“With this measure, Congress will send a clear message to Australia, our close friend, partner, and ally: the United States stands with you no matter what. When I spoke with Australia's Ambassador last week, I expressed deep concern over the recent strain in our relationship. It doesn’t reflect the strong partnership between the United States and Australia,” said Rep. Engel. “Australia is an exceptionally close military, intelligence, and economic partner. More than 100,000 Australians have fought and died alongside American servicemembers, and our economic ties account for more than 300,000 American jobs. This resolution reaffirms our decades-old relationship, and it signals a commitment to the mutual respect and shared sacrifice that have helped advance our interests around the world.”

“Now, more than ever, the United States must make clear our appreciation and esteem for those nations that share our ideals and values, and that have helped us in times of war and peace. I am proud to join Congressman Engel and my colleagues to reaffirm our deep connection with Australia, a nation of friends and confederates who have served alongside Americans dating back to World War I,” said Rep. Speier.

The resolution can be found here.

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