Coping with Heightened Chinese-American Cooperation

The development of the small island nations strewn across the Pacific Ocean is closely tied to regional security. For China, which has been increasing its presence in the area, this also means closer cooperation with the United States.

Leaders of 13 Pacific island countries and regions participated in the PALM summit held in Nago city, Okinawa.

Japanese Prime Minister Noda, acting as chairman of the summit, stated at a press conference, “both Japan and the Pacific island nations have been weakened by natural disaster. I would like to share Japan’s experience.” Through his statement, he stressed the significance of disaster prevention, which was adopted as a cornerstone into the summit declaration.

Japan’s statement further told the island nations that to be prepared for a tsunami or an earthquake, it would support the maintenance of a “Disaster Early Warning System.” It promised the establishment of a “Natural Disaster Risk Insurance” in cooperation with the World Bank.

The prime minister said that although the financial situation is currently grave, Japan will not turn in on itself, but continue its service to world prosperity and security. He went on to announce a total contribution of $500 million in aid over three years. This sum is identical to the previous donation.

A meeting between the island nations’ leaders and Japanese corporate managers and the finance community has been arranged. This measure aims to promote private investment. The government should cooperate with the private sector, and advance targeted aid diplomacy.

Further topics of discussion at the PALM summit included issues such as the environmental protection of the Pacific Ocean and the development of resources.

China has unfolded a proactive aid diplomacy towards the Pacific island nations. Its total aid sum exceeds that of Japan, and continues to be third in scope behind Australia and the U.S.

Particularly conspicuous is a surge in aid towards mineral-rich Papua New Guinea and Fiji.

Relations have deteriorated between America/Europe and Fiji, which was absent at this PALM summit. This makes it seem increasingly likely that Fiji will turn to China.

Chinese President Wen Jiabao, Vice President Xi Jinping and other high-profile figures of the Chinese government show up in these countries almost every year. This is not only about heightened naval presence and military assistance, but also about increasing migration.

The United States participated in the PALM summit for the first time this year. The Obama administration, stressing the importance of the Asia-Pacific region, is increasingly cautious toward China. America has set out to develop its relationship with the Pacific island nations.

Together with other PALM participants such as Australia and New Zealand, we need to do our best for the stable development of the Pacific Ocean region.