China in the Pacific Islands

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.

The newly developed U.S.-Pacific partnership strategy will ensure a prosperous tomorrow for the Pacific Island region.

The Pacific Islands states have rejected China’s overreach. But are Washington’s efforts any more attractive?

A Chinese delegation visited the plantation that covers most of Kolombangar Island in 2019, asking questions about the length of the wharf and depth of the water.