Information
Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has voiced strong opposition to China establishing any permanent military presence in the South Pacific. Speaking in Australia, Rabuka emphasised that Fiji would not welcome such a development and believes China understands this stance. He argued that the Pacific region should remain an “ocean of peace” free from superpower rivalries and interference. According to Rabuka, while China can play a role in development, this involvement should not compromise Fiji’s relationships with countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. He stressed that Pacific leaders are striving for a delicate balance, maintaining friendly ties with all nations without becoming entangled in geopolitical conflicts.
China has long used investment as a means to expand its influence in the Pacific, funding infrastructure such as hospitals, roads, and government buildings in countries including the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. This strategy has successfully persuaded several nations, Kiribati, the Solomon Islands, and Nauru, to shift diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to Beijing. The Solomon Islands, in particular, has drawn scrutiny since signing a security pact with China in 2022, fueling concerns that Beijing could eventually establish a military base there.
Source: AFP, Reuters
So What
This is a big statement for Fiji to make and will highly likely upset China, which has been a big supporter of Fiji in the past. Though it is still possible that China will be able to secure a foothold in other countries, such as the Solomon Islands, having another Pacific island come out with such a strong statement will possibly discourage them from taking any further steps. Now the ball is in the traditional partners’ court, can they or will they step up support to these island nations and give them the reassurance needed to counter Chinese influence.
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