Trump Administration Slashes Over 90% of USAID Funding, Raising Concerns for Pacific Island Nations

Tusi Tala The Trump administration’s decision to cut over 90% of USAID funding has led to concerns that “nothing’s safe right now,” according to a regional political expert. President Trump’s government announced a reduction of around $60 billion in US development and humanitarian assistance worldwide as part of its America First policy. Last September, former…

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Cook Islands: Why a tiny nation has unnerved bigger Pacific countries, clue lies in China

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…

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Whose nerve is touched by China’s enhanced cooperation with Pacific Island countries?

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor On Sunday, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown concluded his visit to China. In response to some Western media’s skepticism about the outcomes of his trip, he stated that there will be “nothing to worry about” and emphasized, “Our relationship and engagement with China complements, not replaces, our long-standing relationships with…

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