New data shows US topped China ‘Belt and Road’ spending in Pacific Islands by 2021
Beijing and Washington have been in a tug of war over political influence for the 14 Pacific Island nations.
Beijing and Washington have been in a tug of war over political influence for the 14 Pacific Island nations.
The investment by Australia and the United States into funding the new Google internet cables means the Pacific islands can avoid becoming integral parts of China's global data collection.
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"One of China’s most salient advantages in the competition is its ability to identify and woo both public influencers and elites in [Pacific island] governments, whether via licit or illicit means," MITRE analysts conclude.
Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made a bold promise to the Pacific island leaders: “You can count on the United States partnering with you.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese engaged in a very public and winning hug with Solomon Islands leader Manasseh Sogavere, who repeated his pledge that there would not be any Chinese military bases in his country.
Campbell, the NSC's coordinator for Indo-Pacific affairs, said the US will launch a new effort next week to help the Pacific islands, including initiatives to build new embassies.