President Joe Biden revealed that the US has recognized Cook Islands and Niue as he met regional leaders to counter China.
At the meeting held in the White House, the Prime Minister of the Cook Islands (on the left) is shown with Vice President Joe Biden of the United States. (Source: RTE News)
Niue and Cook Islands Added to the American Force
US officials said the president confirmed a more forceful American attitude in the region at the outset of a summit with the 18-member Pacific Islands Forum. Mr. Biden stated that Washington would establish diplomatic relations with the Cook Islands and Niue as “sovereign and independent” states. Maintaining a “free and open Indo-Pacific region,” he said. President Biden said the deals to recognize the two nations would reduce illegal fishing, address climate change in a fragile region, and enhance economic growth.
Despite having fewer than 20,000 people, the Cook Islands and Niue form a vast South Pacific economic zone. As self-governing states in “free association” with New Zealand, their foreign and defense policies are partially linked to Wellington. After decades of neglect, the South Pacific is now a key battleground between the US and an assertive China. China has increased its economic, political, and military presence in the crucial ocean region.
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According to the White House
There is no doubt that the PRC played a role, according to a senior White House official. Because of China’s aggression and influence, particularly in this region, we must retain our strategic emphasis. The Pacific Ocean governments and territories represented in the conference range from Australia to sparsely inhabited micro-states and archipelagos. However, China’s influence would be felt even if the Solomon Islands prime minister, who is friendly with Beijing, were not present.
Manasseh Sogavare, who attended the UN General Assembly in New York last week, did not stay longer. “We’re sad that he’s chosen not to come to this very special meeting,” said another White House official. Mr. Biden was scheduled to host a Pacific leaders’ summit in Papua New Guinea in May after last year’s inaugural gathering. He returned home from Asia to solve a debt-ceiling catastrophe. The White House planned a full program for the Washington summit, starting with a football game yesterday.
The leaders took a train to Baltimore to attend a Ravens-Colts game as guests of honor. Meetings and lunch with President Biden are scheduled for today. Tomorrow, the leaders will meet with climate and economic leaders and US congressmen.
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