Smoa says it did not have enough time to consider a proposal from China for a trade and security agreement, and urged the Pacific islands to remain united as the major powers seek to rule the region.Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Tonga on Tuesday for a regional visit where Beijing’s bid to strengthen security ties has raised concerns among US partners.
On Monday, a meeting held by Wang in Fiji with colleagues from 10 islands withdrew the consideration of a major agreement involving police, security, fisheries, information and a free trade area, proposed by China. Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has been one of the leaders in the archipelago seeking a delay, and she wants major regional decisions passed through the Pacific Islands Forum, Samoan media reported on Tuesday.”We have not yet made a decision as we did not have enough time to look into it,” Samoan journalist Talamua quoted Fiame as saying.
The Niuean leader on Monday evening also issued a statement saying more time was needed to consider how “the system with China will support existing regional programs.” The draft framework and five-year plan have been submitted by Beijing to China-affiliated countries. Weeks in advance, but it has been leaked amid criticism of an agreement that will bind nations close to China, and escalate political tensions with the United States.
Despite having a small population and economy, each Pacific nation represents a vote in international forums such as the United Nations. They also control the vast expanses of resources rich in resources and access to areas of strategic military importance. Talamua reported that Fiame said a recent security agreement signed between China and the Solomon Islands should also be discussed at the Pacific Island Forum, which includes members who recognize Taiwan and not Beijing.
“It is important that we have the opportunity to consult and have a united voice on the state of the region in order to make a difference,” he was quoted as saying.His media spokesman declined to comment on Reuters, as Samoa held 60 years of independence celebrations on Tuesday. Wang arrived in Tonga state on Tuesday, according to the Chinese ambassador to Tonga.Tonga, which was hit by a volcanic eruption and tsunami in January, owes two-thirds of its $ 195 million foreign debt to China’s Export-Import Bank, its budget shows.Australia and New Zealand have linked American partners to relief work that includes defense aircraft and ships after the eruption, and China has also sent aid and equipment to naval vessels in a widely publicized relief effort.
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