; (B) to gain access to and influence the policies of democratic countries; and (C) to directly fund political parties and organizations that advance Russian interests in other countries, particularly those that undermine confidence and trust in democratic systems. (6) Thwarting these tactics by Russia and other kleptocratic governments requires the international community to strengthen democratic governance, the rule of law, and international cooperation in combating illicit finance, especially by empowering reformers in foreign countries during historic political openings for the establishment of the rule of law in those countries. (7) New reformers in foreign countries must act quickly to seize political openings for anti-corruption reform. Since such reformers are often outsiders with little government experience, they may need significant technical assistance to root out deep-seated corruption. 3. Definitions In this Act: (1) Appropriate congressional committees The term appropriate congressional committees means— (A) the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate ; (B) the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate ; (C) the Committee on Finance of the Senate ; (D) the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives ; (E) the Committee on Financial Services of the House of Representatives