Pacific island leaders have agreed to support a new regional policing plan, despite concerns that it was intended to exclude China. The plan, known as the Pacific Policing Initiative, will establish up to four police training centers of excellence in the Pacific, with Australia contributing $400 million over five years. Each Pacific nation will have the option to participate in the multinational police unit, which will provide rapid response to disasters and security challenges. The Australian prime minister, Anthony Albanese, emphasized that the agreement demonstrates the unity of the Pacific family in addressing security concerns.
While the deal does not mention China directly, it aims to allow the Pacific region to take care of its own security without depending on other countries. The plan received initial skepticism from leaders like the prime minister of Vanuatu, Charlot Salwai, who expressed concerns about the initiative potentially serving western strategic interests. However, the prime minister of Tonga strongly supported the plan, emphasizing that each country will have autonomy in choosing how to contribute and benefit from the program.
Furthermore, Australia secured a bilateral climate and security agreement with Tuvalu, providing security guarantees in exchange for the right to veto Tuvalu’s security cooperation with other countries. This agreement aims to strengthen regional security cooperation and ensure a coordinated response to natural disasters or military threats. The developments reflect a concerted effort by Pacific island nations to enhance their security capabilities and determine their own strategic interests.
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