Rockland Reporter

Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) and Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04) introduced the bipartisan Partners in Diplomacy Act on August 30, 2024. This legislation aims to enable the State Department to facilitate co-location agreements with trusted partners in overseas facilities, such as embassies and consulates. The term "trusted partners" refers specifically to NATO allies and major non-NATO allies.

The proposed legislation is expected to yield significant cost savings, particularly at smaller posts with limited staff. Additionally, it is seen as a strategic tool for enhancing American presence in specific regions, including the Pacific Islands. Co-locating with allies would also help deepen bilateral relations and streamline outreach and engagement efforts.

"Strengthening our relations with key partners and allies has been my top objective as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee," said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17). "It's why I fought to secure crucial aid to Israel, introduced the Indo-Pacific Treaty Organization Act earlier this year, and just today introduced the Partners in Diplomacy Act. This legislation will have the double effect of reducing costs for diplomatic office space and deepening diplomatic ties with key strategic partners and allies. That's a win-win for the forces of freedom."

Representative Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04) emphasized the importance of these relationships: "Deepening relationships with American allies is a key function of the State Department — and granting them the authority to co-locate with trusted partners will facilitate their critical work as they represent our Democracy abroad," she said. "The Partners in Diplomacy Act will expand our capacity to work alongside key allies while potentially reducing costs. I’m grateful to work with Congressman Lawler on this commonsense adjustment to State Department policy."

Congressman Lawler is recognized as one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress. He represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which includes all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.