China’s ‘dangerous actions,’ and regional chess moves: The Pacific in 2023
Months of Chinese harassment of Philippine vessels culminated in early December with up to 135 Chinese ships swarming the Philippines around Scarborough Shoal.
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.
US, Aussies funding Google undersea internet cables for Pacific Islands, with geostrategic implications
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.
US, Australia should use civil aid, not military, to woo Pacific Island states from China: Wargame
"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.
First ever visit to Papua New Guinea by a US SecDef announced, as Pacific Islands import grows
The announcement of Austin's visit to Papua New Guinea came in the wake of more signs that that neighboring Solomon Islands continues to move towards China as its key partner.
US, Papua New Guinea boost defense ties in wake of Solomon Islands deal with China
A Coast Guard spokeswoman noted that being turned away from the Solomons "allowed for increased partnership with Papua New Guinea, supporting strategic objectives and strengthening regional relationships."