Hawaii Senate Bill SR122

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Governor To Establish A 2023 Asia-pacific Economic Cooperation Hawaii Delegation Team To Participate In The 2023 Asia-pacific Economic Cooperation Events In Seattle And San Francisco.

Impact

By authorizing a delegation to participate in the APEC events, SR122 aims to not only present Hawaiian culture and products but also foster goodwill and economic relations with other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Key activities proposed for the delegation include welcoming participants with the 'Aloha Spirit' and showcasing Hawaiian goods and services at the trade shows associated with APEC. This initiative is viewed as a strategic step toward enhancing Hawaii's presence on the international stage and expanding economic opportunities.

Summary

Senate Resolution 122, introduced during the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii in 2023, requests the Governor to establish a Hawaii delegation team for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) events in Seattle and San Francisco. The APEC is a vital regional economic forum that enhances cooperation among member economies to promote sustainable growth and regional economic integration. The bill emphasizes Hawaii's interests in strengthening ties with Asia-Pacific economies through active participation in this international conference.

Contention

Although the bill is framed positively, it may evoke discussions regarding the effectiveness of a state-managed delegation versus private or community-led initiatives. Some stakeholders might argue about the allocation of state resources toward international diplomacy when local economic needs could also warrant attention. Additionally, ensuring diverse representation within the delegation—including input from ethnic chambers of commerce—highlights the importance of inclusivity in Hawaii's approach to international relations.