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| US State Secretary Antony Blinken meeting Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape on the sidelines of the APEC summit, in Bangkok, Thailand November 17, 2022 [REUTERS] |
INVIEW.ID | EN - World leaders are flocking to the Pacific Islands, drawn by the region's strategic significance and potential economic opportunities. While the China-US rivalry certainly plays a role, there are other factors at play, and Pacific Island countries (PICs) are capitalizing on this attention to advance their own interests.
The Pacific Islands, comprising nations like Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and Vanuatu, have traditionally been aligned with the US and its allies like Australia and New Zealand. However, geopolitical tensions and the increasing interest of major powers have shifted the dynamics.
China's push to expand its influence in the Pacific has led to diplomatic engagements, economic investments, and infrastructure projects. The US, in response, has strengthened its presence and partnerships in the region. Amidst this struggle for influence, other nations like India, South Korea, and Indonesia are also seeking to establish their presence.
India's engagement in the Pacific is driven by its aspirations to be a global power and a regional leader. Climate change cooperation, aid efforts, and economic partnerships are key to India's approach. South Korea, while maintaining its alliance with the US, is positioning itself as a middle power capable of projecting influence in the region through grants, technologies, and green initiatives. Indonesia, similarly, is leveraging its regional power status to forge relationships in the Pacific, not solely focused on the Papua issue but seeking broader recognition and strategic benefits.
Pacific Island nations are navigating this renewed attention to their advantage. They pursue a non-aligned foreign policy, engaging with various countries while safeguarding their interests. The increased competition for their partnership provides them with more options and bargaining power. The Pacific Island nations are seizing this opportunity to focus on their own agenda, emphasizing their priorities such as climate change, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
In conclusion, the rush of world leaders to the Pacific Islands is not solely about the China-US rivalry. Other nations are recognizing the region's importance for its strategic location, economic potential, and maritime significance. While the superpowers vie for influence, countries like India, South Korea, and Indonesia are also seeking to establish their presence, and the Pacific Island nations are skillfully leveraging this attention to advance their own interests and shape their own agenda.[]
