China in the Pacific Islands

Examining the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s Oceania port visits.

Washington has indeed stepped up engagement, but missteps, half-steps, and mixed messaging are getting in the way.

As Honiara denies its new security pact with China poses a threat to the Pacific, it would behoove the West to consider what it is the Solomons want and need from their partners.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare is on his second trip to China – and his first since upending Pacific geopolitics with a China-Solomons security agreement.

Speaking from Japan, Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr. said that three Chinese boats have made “uninvited” entries into his country’s waters since he took office in 2021.

Fiji announced a reconsideration of its 2011 security agreement with China just before signing a new defense agreement with New Zealand. It was subtle but clear signal to Beijing.

The specter of geostrategic competition being mapped onto Fiji’s political fault lines remains a distinct possibility that would be deeply damaging for the nation, and region, as a whole.

Outgoing President David Panuelo released a lengthy letter detailing Beijing’s efforts to bribe and bully Micronesian leaders – and exploring the possibility of recognizing Taiwan instead.

Increased French-U.S. cooperation in the region should be welcome news to Pacific Island states.

Despite the current détente, five major issues may place further strain on the Australia-China relationship next year.

The new pact comes amid a ramped up competition with China in the Pacific, following Beijing's own security deal with Solomon Islands.

The landmark meeting encapsulated both the strengths and weaknesses of U.S. strategy in the region.