Niue's Struggle for Commonwealth Inclusion

Niue, celebrating 50 years of self-government, is excluded from the upcoming Commonwealth leaders meeting. Although recognized as a sovereign state, it is still regarded as New Zealand's realm within the Commonwealth. Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi seeks full membership and broader diplomatic ties amidst regional security concerns.

On Saturday, Niue celebrated its 50th anniversary of self-government. Despite this milestone, the Pacific Island state finds itself excluded from the Commonwealth leaders meeting, prompting its Prime Minister, Dalton Tagelagi, to call for change. King Charles of Britain recognized the occasion with a congratulatory video.

Settled by Samoans in 900AD and once a British Protectorate, Niue gained self-governing status in 1974 in a free association with New Zealand. Recently acknowledged by the United States as a sovereign state, Niue remains under New Zealand's umbrella in the Commonwealth, raising questions about its full membership status.

As regional security concerns rise, Niue seeks to broaden its diplomatic ties. In light of recent challenges, such as not being informed of China's missile test in the Pacific, Prime Minister Tagelagi emphasized the importance of having a voice in shaping the island's destiny while strengthening its partnership with New Zealand.

(With inputs from agencies.)