The United States must prioritize gaining the trust of Pacific Island countries, rather than solely focusing on countering China. The lack of confidence in the US and perception of its engagement as a reaction to China’s expansion may hinder cooperation. China’s presence in the Pacific has surpassed that of the US and suggests the potential for increased naval presence. The Biden administration’s Pacific Partnership Strategy needs to prove its commitment through practical action and financial resources. Failure to meet commitments may result in Pacific Islanders turning to Chinese assistance.
Abstract
The United States must prioritize building trust with Pacific Island countries in order to effectively engage with them and establish genuine cooperation. While China’s expanding presence in the region is a concern, the US should not solely focus on countering China, but should also recognize the strategic importance of the Pacific Islands for US security, prosperity, and efforts against climate change. However, there is currently a lack of confidence in the US and a perception that its engagement is simply a reaction to China’s expansion, which could impede cooperation between the US and Pacific Island nations.
Challenges with Trust
Although the United States is aware of the challenges posed by China’s increasing involvement in the Pacific, winning the trust of Pacific Island countries should be the top priority for Washington. The Pacific Islands play a crucial role in US security and prosperity, as well as leading the fight against climate change. However, there is a lack of confidence in the US as its engagement in the region is often seen as a reactive measure to China’s expansion, rather than a genuine commitment.
China’s Involvement and the Biden Administration’s Strategy
China has surpassed the US in terms of assistance and involvement in the Pacific, which includes diplomacy and aid programs. There are indications that China may also pursue a naval presence in the region, as exemplified by the recent China-Solomon Islands security pact. In response, the Biden administration has announced the Pacific Partnership Strategy, but it must avoid solely focusing on countering China in order to reach its full potential. To demonstrate its commitment, the US needs to provide practical action and financial resources to Pacific Island nations. Failure to meet these commitments could lead Pacific Islanders to consider Chinese assistance as an alternative.
Source: East Asia Forum
Source : Trust building pivotal to US–Pacific Islands relations