Pacific Islands Meeting: Climate and Security in the Spotlight as US and China Jostle for Influence

Next week's Pacific Islands meeting in Tonga will center on climate change and regional security amidst the growing influence of China and the US. Leaders will discuss pressing issues including economic aid, civil unrest, and international banking. The US and China seek a strategic foothold in the region.

Next week's Pacific Islands meeting in Tonga is expected to prioritize discussions on climate change and regional security as China and the US vie for influence. Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, the chairman of the Pacific Islands Forum, emphasized the need for regional solidarity to tackle geostrategic interests and emerging challenges.

UN Secretary General António Guterres is set to visit Tonga, highlighting the importance of increased climate change assistance for the island nation. Economic ministers have raised concerns about slow growth, rising costs for imported goods, and the impact of climate-induced disasters. The decline of international banking services in the region will also be a key discussion point.

Civil unrest in New Caledonia and proposals for enhanced regional police training will be addressed, with Australia backing a new training center in Papua New Guinea. China's increasing role in the region, including visits from the leaders of Fiji, Vanuatu, and Solomon Islands, underscores its development and security goals. US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell is also scheduled to attend, highlighting the strategic significance of the meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)