by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the Cook Islands may seem like a dot on the map, yet this small nation has recently emerged as a focal point of geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning China’s growing influence in the region. The dynamics surrounding the Cook Islands illustrate how even…
by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer The 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) has altered its final communique to remove a reference to Taiwan, after a senior Chinese diplomat publicly criticized the document. Organizers have blamed the wording on an error. The group of 18 island nations, along with Australia and New Zealand, convened in Tonga last…
by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer A joint statement from Pacific leaders was reissued at the PIF yesterday morning, omitting references to Taiwan after China criticized a previous version as a “mistake” that needed correction. Following five days of discussions in Tonga, a revised communique was published on Friday, reaffirming a 30-year-old agreement that permits Taiwan’s…
by Byron Louis, Staff Writer A deputy foreign minister from Taiwan is set to participate in this week’s gathering of Pacific Islands leaders in Tonga, as announced by Taiwan’s foreign ministry on Sunday. This meeting comes amid ongoing competition for influence in the region between China and the United States. The Pacific is a key…
by Richard Sanders, Staff Writer The Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) and Prime Minister of Tonga, Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni, is still awaiting approval from Paris for a Pacific mission to New Caledonia. Recently, the French Ambassador to the Pacific, Véronique Roger-Lacan, mentioned that President Emmanuel Macron has not yet signed a letter permitting…
by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) serves as a crucial platform for dialogue and cooperation among the nations of the Pacific region. Among the members, Australia and New Zealand have wielded significant influence, both historically and politically. Their involvement in the forum has shaped policies, agendas, and priorities, impacting the entire…