New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters pointed out that Western countries, including the U.S. and New Zealand, did not grasp the strategic importance of island nations in the South Pacific quickly enough. He emphasized that this oversight created a void that allowed other nations to expand their diplomatic influence in the region. Peters made these remarks in an interview in Wellington as leaders from Pacific nations were preparing to gather in Tonga for their annual summit, addressing issues such as sovereignty, climate change, and foreign interference in small nations.
The South Pacific, once overlooked by Western governments, has become a focal point for major powers vying for influence, resources, and power. As a result, the Pacific Islands Forum has gained significance, attracting global diplomatic and civil society attention. China has been actively engaging with leaders of Pacific nations with offers like infrastructure funding and security assistance, leading to concerns about the debt burden on these small island nations and the potential loss of their sovereignty to larger powers.
Peters did not explicitly mention China in his comments but criticized what he described as “checkbook diplomacy,” a strategy that involves providing funds with political conditions or repayment terms, thereby increasing foreign influence. He emphasized the importance of New Zealand maintaining respectful relationships with smaller Pacific nations and not challenging their independence. Peters, who has been actively visiting member states of the Pacific Islands Forum, stressed the need for unity and collaboration among like-minded countries in addressing geopolitical challenges in the region.
The tensions between Australia, New Zealand, and some Pacific nations have been evident, with countries like Kiribati suspending diplomatic visits, possibly due to their shifting alliances and closer ties with China. Despite these geopolitical complexities, Peters believes in the enduring connections within the Pacific “family.” The forum is also expected to address ongoing unrest in New Caledonia, where the Indigenous Kanak people are seeking independence from France, sparking violent clashes earlier this year.
Peters expressed concerns about the potential consequences of France relinquishing control over New Caledonia and emphasized the importance of major economies staying involved in the Pacific region. He criticized France’s handling of the situation in New Caledonia and urged for exploring solutions that promote unity and friendship. As leaders convene in Tonga to tackle pressing challenges like climate change, Peters underscored the need for increased urgency, action, and unity in addressing the region’s issues.
