; only then will there be relief from the sanctions. . (17) The North Korea Sanctions and Policy Enhancement Act of 2016 states that there can be no sanctions relief unless North Korea has made significant progress toward completely, verifiably, and irreversibly dismantling all of its nuclear, chemical, biological, and radiological weapons programs, including all programs for the development of systems designed in whole or in part for the delivery of such weapons . (18) The United States Government has successfully pursued a policy of deterrence, which has kept the American people safe from a nuclear attack from the Russian Federation, China, and other states with nuclear weapons, which have a combined nuclear arsenal of more than 7,000 warheads. (19) Over time, the United States policy of deterrence, containment, and diplomacy to reduce nuclear weapons risks protected the American people and contributed to the peaceful dissolution of the Soviet Union. (20) The United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan are all free societies that are committed to the principles of inclusive democracy, respect for human potential and individual character, and the belief that the peaceful spread of these principles will result in a safer and brighter future for all of mankind. (21) The Governments and people of the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan can help realize this future through further strengthening their economic, political, social, cultural, and security relationships. (22) The Governments and people of the United States, the Republic of Korea, and Japan share a commitment to free and open markets, high standards for the free flow of commerce and trade, and the establishment of an inclusive architecture for regional and global trade and development. (23) The United States-Japan and United States-Republic of Korea security alliances have evolved considerably over many decades and will continue to transform as genuine partnerships, sharing greater responsibilities and dedicated to ensuring a secure and