Oceania

With COFA funding expected to finally get congressional approval, the U.S. will need to work to overcome the negative perceptions generated by the protracted struggle to fund vital U.S. Pacific partners. 

While showcasing the divergences between Australia and its Southeast Asian partners, the summit can be deemed a success in both form and substance.

The economic focus of this week's ASEAN-Australia summit has been shadowed by the continuing tensions in the South China Sea.

2024 has already tested Papua New Guinea, with deadly unrest in the capital and tribal fighting in the highlands. Where do matters currently stand for the government of James Marape?

Australia's trade conflict with China has prompted it to look to Southeast Asia, an emerging economic powerhouse.

Prime Minister Feleti Teo said Tuvalu’s ties with Taiwan “are purely based on democratic principles” and not in question.

As we muddle through the complexities of the 21st century, progress appears to be stifled by a media keen on angering its audience, rather than informing them.

Central to Marcos’ speech – and to growing Australia-Philippines ties – are concerns about China’s behavior in the South China Sea. 

The new government will determine the fate of a security treaty with Australia – and could reconsider Tuvalu’s ties with Taiwan.

India and the United States – two countries with which New Zealand wants much closer relations – are currently the two biggest single barriers to achieving Wellington’s goals at the WTO.

For Australia, it is critical to keep good ties with PNG amid China's growing influence.

Palau President Surangel Whipps says that “there was optimism and hope” when the Palau-U.S. compact agreement was signed. But concerns are mounting as funding stalls in the U.S. Congress.