Pacific Step Up

The deal is designed to head off the network's rumored purchase by a state-owned Chinese firm.

The recent Australian budget leaves little breathing room for Pacific Island nations.

Despite the reality of the threat posed by climate change, Australia is a significant part of the failure to adequately address it. That has growing diplomatic costs.

The Australian government would likely be very wary of such a development, should it occur. 

Diminishing Canberra's presence in Southeast Asia to reinforce its goals in the South Pacific is a trade-off with a significant cost. 

A recent interaction highlighted the convergences between the two countries in the wider strategic space amid continued challenges and limits.

The global community has offered great assistance to Australia, but it’s extended hands from the Pacific which Canberra should cherish most.

Finding a position respectful of Honiara that also maintains Canberra’s strategic desires will require a deft touch.

The interaction highlighted some of the ongoing activity between the two sides in the defense realm.