U.S.-Japan Caucus Co-Chairs Applaud Senate Passage of North Korea Sanctions Legislation

Feb 10, 2016
Press Release

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Charles W. Boustany, Jr., MD (LA-03), Co-Chairs of the U.S.-Japan Caucus, released the following statement applauding the United States Senate’s passage of the North Korea Sanctions and Policy Enhancement Act of 2016: 

“Today, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation that bolsters our nation’s ability to confront the security threat North Korea poses and better ensure the safety of our regional allies, including Japan and South Korea. This bill, which builds upon legislation we in the House of Representatives recently passed, requires the Obama Administration to investigate any sanctionable conduct, and then penalize those found to be directly facilitating activities that support North Korea’s nuclear program or human rights abuses. The bill also requires the development of a strategy to combat the growing North Korean cyber threat, and it provides the U.S. Treasury Department with greater authority to block money laundering that benefits the Kim regime. With this proactive, comprehensive legislation, the United States makes clear its support for human rights and moves the international community closer to achieving the peaceful disarmament of North Korea. 

“North Korea’s recent nuclear test and rocket launch emphasize the urgency with which this stern action is needed. We are pleased the Senate has sent a strong signal to Pyongyang that the United States will pursue and hold accountable anyone who would support the North Korean regime’s dangerous, oppressive behavior.” 

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