“To enhance subnational diplomacy efforts within the Department of State, and for other purposes.”
No CRS summary available for this bill.
This section establishes in the Department of State the Office of Subnational Diplomacy to facilitate the Department's engagement with subnational governments (e.g., states, counties, cities, municipalities) to attract foreign investment, counter foreign malign influence in the United States, and advance U.S. foreign policy priorities. The office is headed by the Special Representative for Subnational Diplomacy, who reports to the Under Secretary of Economic Affairs and has responsibilities that include (1) advising the Under Secretary on subnational engagements; (2) serving as the Department's principal official on such matters; (3) coordinating Department support for local and municipal engagements with foreign governments; (4) advising subnational officials on risks from countries of concern and best practices against foreign interference; (5) assisting subnational governments in attracting international events and investment, building staff capacity, advancing sports diplomacy, implementing cooperative programs, and understanding foreign policy implications; (6) supporting U.S. economic interests through such engagements in coordination with other agencies; (7) advising on negotiations of subnational agreements with foreign governments; and (8) coordinating with associations of subnational leaders (e.g., U.S. Conference of Mayors, National Governors Association).