Pacific Island Nations Consider Future Ties with the United States

sovereign – adj. having independent authority and the right to govern itself

location – n. a place or position

bilateral – adj. involving two groups or countries

indefinite – adj. not certain in amount or length

reciprocal – adj. used to describe a relationship in which two people or groups agree to do something similar for each other, to allow each other to have the same rights, etc.

currency – n. the money that a country uses; a specific kind of money

adopt – v. to accept or approve (something, such as a proposal) in a formal or official way

access – n. a way of being able to use or get something (usually + to)

amend – v. to change some of the words and often the meaning of (a law, document, etc.)

atoll – n. an island that is made of coral and shaped like a ring

self-sufficient – adj. able to live or function without help or support from others

augment – v. to add something to (something) in order to improve or complete it

court – v. to give a lot of attention and praise to (someone) in order to get approval, support, etc.

region – n. a part of a country, of the world, etc., that is different or separate from other parts in some way