Foreign Minister and Opposition Unite for Tuvalu Visit Aimed at Quelling Chinese Influence

Concerns over Chinese influence in the Pacific have led the Australian foreign minister and her opposition counterpart to make the trip to Tuvalu for security talks, coupled with a discussion on the island’s severe vulnerability to the ongoing effects of climate change. Ahead of the delegation arriving today, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said via a statement that Australia’s partnerships with Pacific neighbours are critical to “the security, safety, and prosperity” of Australia and the region as a whole. Tuvalu, a Pacific Islands nation of about 11,200 people, has received financial aid for infrastructure projects from Beijing since 1979, including the construction of government buildings, roads, and sports facilities. Chinese companies have also invested in Tuvalu’s fishing industry, which provides much-needed revenue for the country....