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US-China relations
China

Joe Biden unveils Pacific nations aid, embassies at US-hosted summit as Solomon Islands PM sits out

  • American leader extols ‘security, prosperity and dignity’ for Oceanic allies and partners in latest response to China’s decades-long inroads in region
  • Nearly US$200 million in economic aid announced, but Washington’s possible government shutdown looms large

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US President Joe Biden walks to join a photo opportunity with Pacific Islands Forum leaders at the White House on Monday. Photo: Photo: ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Khushboo Razdanin New York
The White House on Monday welcomed leaders from 16 Pacific island nations and territories, its latest high-profile response to China’s decades-long strategic focus on the region.
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Speaking ahead of the US-Pacific Islands Forum Summit and flanked by his guests, US President Joe Biden contended that Washington had delivered on last year’s promise of rebooting diplomatic ties with the region.

“One of the great opportunities for security, prosperity and dignity for all our people, no matter where they live … starts by building stronger partnerships with each other,” he said.

The American leader cited the opening of new embassies in Tonga and the Solomon Islands, the establishment of a USAID mission in Fiji and the return of the Peace Corps to Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu.
US President Joe Biden poses with the leaders of 16 Pacific island nations whose support Washington views as crucial to stem Beijing’s influence in resource-rich Oceania. Photo: ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
US President Joe Biden poses with the leaders of 16 Pacific island nations whose support Washington views as crucial to stem Beijing’s influence in resource-rich Oceania. Photo: ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Washington would also formally establish diplomatic relations with the Cook Islands and the South Pacific island of Niue, he added.
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