U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) on Dec. 7 introduced a bipartisan resolution to reaffirm the partnership between the United States and the Dominican Republic and advance opportunities to deepen diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation between the two nations.
“The United States’ friendship with the Dominican Republic is based upon proximity, strategic interest, and economic and cultural ties,” Sen. Cassidy said on Monday. “The U.S. should always look for new ways to strengthen that friendship.”
Senate Resolution (S.Res.) 472, which is sponsored by U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ), also would recognize that the countries share a mutual commitment to promote internationally recognized human rights, democratic values, and the rule of law; and that their ongoing relationship has contributed to the economic prosperity and national security of both countries, according to the text of the resolution.
Additionally, S.Res. 472 states that under the leadership of Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader, who took office on Aug. 16, 2020, the country’s government has taken steps to effectively address the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, fully vaccinating over 60 percent of its adult population, which is one of the highest vaccination rates in Latin America and the Caribbean, the text says.
The country also has acquired sufficient surplus vaccines to provide donations to other countries in the region and committed to working with the United States, other Group of 7 countries, the International Monetary Fund, and the InterAmerican Development Bank to advance global and regional post-pandemic economic recovery efforts, according to the text.
“This resolution is an opportunity to celebrate the enduring bonds and shared democratic values that have allowed our countries to work together to reach common goals in addressing ongoing threats to democracy, security, human rights, and economic wellbeing in our hemisphere,” said Sen. Menendez. “I remain deeply committed to continue working with President Abinader and the vibrant Dominican-American diaspora in our country, especially in my home state of New Jersey, to strengthen our partnership and advance the welfare of our people.”
The Senate resolution has been referred for consideration to the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee.