Australia’s preeminent role in the Pacific may be subject to change. While many think the looming threat to Australian leadership is increased Chinese interest in the region, the greater threat may very well be Australia’s response, or lack thereof, to regional climate threats. This article series explores Australia’s partnership with… read more
Room to Step-Up: Australia’s Bid to Maintain Influence in Oceania (1/2)
As China becomes increasingly assertive in Oceania, Australia seeks to reinforce and strengthen ties with its Pacific neighbors. However, its success in reengaging the Pacific will depend on its willingness to step up on climate issues. Australia has long been perhaps the preeminent partner to the Pacific. It is the… read more
The Pacific Reset: New Zealand Re-Engages Oceania
Earlier this year, New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, visited the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. In the Solomon Islands, Peters signed a new Statement of Partnership with Solomon Islands’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Jeremiah Manele, and he pledged New Zealand’s support for… read more
They are Islanders: Japan in Oceania
As global interest in Oceania grows, Japan is actively looking to deepen its ties with Pacific Island Countries (PICs). Japan has a long history of engagement in Oceania; Japanese Prime Minister Abe has said that Japan and the PICs share “an expansive oceanic identity.” However, Japan’s current, heightened interest in… read more
Shifting Opportunity: Kiribati and Solomon Islands Establish Diplomatic Relations with Beijing
In September of this year, the governments of the Solomon Islands and Kiribati severed ties with Taipei in favor of establishing formal diplomatic relations with Beijing. The Solomon Islands initially recognized Taiwan in 1986, with their decision in September effectively ending 36 years of diplomatic relations. Kiribati ended its prior… read more