Countering China in the South Pacific... US to Open Embassies in Cook Islands and Others

The United States is planning to open embassies in the Cook Islands and Niue, island nations in the South Pacific, AP News reported on the 24th (local time).

According to AP, U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to announce this plan on the 25th during the 2nd U.S.-Pacific Island Countries Summit held in Washington D.C. This move is analyzed as an effort to counter China's expanding influence in the region by strengthening relations with the South Pacific island nations.

China has been increasing its influence in the region by signing a security agreement with the Solomon Islands last year and holding a foreign ministers' meeting with 10 Pacific island countries in Fiji, chaired by Foreign Minister Wang Yi. In response, the U.S. also invited leaders from Pacific island countries including Tonga, Palau, Tuvalu, Micronesia, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Marshall Islands, Samoa, Polynesia, and the Cook Islands to Washington last September for the first summit, announcing support measures. Furthermore, in February, the U.S. reopened its embassy in the Solomon Islands after 30 years.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated, "The President will reaffirm his support for strengthening relations with the Pacific island countries and discuss how to address global challenges, including responses to existential threats such as climate change."