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The US is stepping up its presence in the Pacific to counter China’s influence

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, left, listens to US Vice President Kamala Harris speak via videoconference at the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Suva 13 July 2022 | Font: AFP | Photographer: WILLIAM WEST

USA announced on Tuesday a new strategy to prioritize international relations with pacific states In an effort to resist the influence China in the region.

In a statement White House described in detail that Biden administration intends to strengthen its ties with pacific islandssince the history of these and the United States is “inextricably linked.”

Thus, the United States intends to counteract the influence China in the region, since the Asian country recently concluded a security agreement with Solomon islandsas well as with other countries in the region, Washington Post.

“We recognize that in recent years, the Pacific Islands may not have received the diplomatic attention and support they deserve. So I’m here today to tell you straight out that we’re going to change that,” said US Vice President Kamala. Harris at the Pacific Islands Forum.

USA: Harris speaks out

Vice President USA explained that the intention of the North American country is to achieve a greater American presence in the region, starting with the opening of new embassies: one in Tonga and one in Kiribati.

Similarly, Harris announced that the Biden administration would appoint the first envoy USA to the Forum Pacific Islands, and will again send the country’s Peace Corps volunteers, according to the letter White House.

“Today, I am also pleased to announce that we plan to triple US funding for economic development and ocean resilience for the Pacific Islands. We will ask the US Congress to increase it from 21 million euros per year to 60 million euros per year over the next 10 years,” explained the second Biden number.

“We will work transparently and constructively, which means we will listen, cooperate and coordinate every step along the way. We will also work to empower a strong and united Pacific Islands Forum that will amplify its voice on the global stage as we continue to work together,” he added.

FIJI-POLITICS-DIPLOMACY
US Vice President Kamala Harris speaks via video link at the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Suva July 13, 2022 | Font: AFP | Photographer: WILLIAM WEST

Combating the Climate Crisis Together

On the other hand, Harris called the climate crisis one of the priorities of the new partnership between USA and the Pacific Islands Forum, arguing that state its constituents are “at the forefront” of the effects of global warming.

“The proof, of course, is that sea levels are rising. The coral reefs that protect your islands and encourage fishing are bleaching. And ocean warming is accelerating.” – Vice President USA.

“That’s why, as we work with the world to reduce emissions, we will continue to partner with you to build resilience, support adaptation, mobilize climate finance, and ensure fisheries and marine resources are sustainable,” Harris added, announcing the plan to combat illegal fishing.

(As reported by Europe Press)

Source: RPP

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