To provide for the political affairs authorities of the Department of State, and for other purposes.

This bill aims to strengthen the Department of State's political affairs capabilities by formally establishing the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs , detailing responsibilities for regional and bilateral diplomacy and foreign policy implementation. It mandates that this Under Secretary receive necessary appropriations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to fulfill these duties. Additionally, the legislation requires congressional notification at least 15 days prior to any changes in regional bureau jurisdiction, including a justification and expected implications. The bill creates new diplomatic positions, including an Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic and an Ambassador-at-Large for the Indian Ocean Region , both reporting to the Under Secretary for Political Affairs. The Arctic Ambassador will focus on regional issues like energy and environment, while the Indian Ocean Ambassador will harmonize U.S. diplomatic efforts and identify strategic interests. It also authorizes Assistant Secretaries for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, African Affairs, Near Eastern Affairs, and South and Central Asian Affairs, further defining regional leadership. A key provision establishes a Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs , headed by its Assistant Secretary, to oversee U.S. foreign policy in the region. Within this bureau, the Secretary of State is authorized to establish a temporary Countering PRC Influence Fund Unit (CPIF Unit) . This unit will identify strategic priorities, approve programming to counter malign activities by China, and conduct oversight, with a termination date of two years after the bill's enactment.