Port Moresby, 22 May 2023 (TDI): On the sidelines of a visit to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, to attend the US-Pacific Islands Forum meeting, Secretary of United States (US), Antony J. Blinken engaged in high-level discussions and reinforced the US commitment to the Pacific region.
He held a productive meeting with Prime Minister Marape of Papua New Guinea, covering a range of topics of mutual interest. The two leaders celebrated the successful conclusion of the new Defense Cooperation Agreement between the US and Papua New Guinea, which will further enhance cooperation in the areas of defense and security.
For the information, the US and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have recently entered into a defense and maritime surveillance agreement aimed at countering China’s influence in the Pacific region. During a visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the agreement was signed, emphasizing the equal and sovereign partnership between the two nations.
This move by Washington and its allies is part of a broader strategy to discourage Pacific island nations from establishing security ties with China, particularly in light of tensions surrounding Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its territory. China has previously stated that any attempt by Taiwan to seek independence would result in military action.
Leaders of the Pacific island nations, whose territories cover vast expanses of ocean, have expressed concerns about rising sea levels due to climate change, which they consider their most urgent security priority. Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea highlighted that the agreement would enhance economic security by enabling PNG’s defense force to have better situational awareness in its waters, which had been lacking since the country’s independence in 1975.
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While the agreement has received support, there have also been protests at several universities, with opposition politicians claiming that it would upset China. Prime Minister Marape clarified that the defense agreement would involve an increased US military presence over the next decade.
Under the agreement, the US will provide $45 million in new funds, focusing on strengthening economic and security cooperation with PNG. This includes provisions such as protective equipment for the PNG defense force, support for climate change mitigation, and joint efforts to combat transnational crime and address issues like HIV/AIDS, as stated by the US State Department.
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In addition to his discussions with Prime Minister Marape, Secretary Blinken also met with Prime Minister Hipkins of New Zealand during the US-Pacific Islands Forum meeting. Recognizing the importance of the US-New Zealand partnership, Secretary Blinken emphasized the shared goals of promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. New Zealand’s role as a vital partner in the Pacific and around the world was reaffirmed, highlighting the significance of continued collaboration between the two nations.
In the same vein, Secretary Blinken also expressed his gratitude to the employees and families of the US Embassy in Port Moresby for their dedicated work and support.
“Their efforts have significantly contributed to strengthening the bilateral relationship between the United States and Papua New Guinea, as well as fostering cultural ties with the people of Papua New Guinea,” he added, commending the diligence and commitment of Embassy staff in advancing the shared interests of both countries.
Notably, Secretary Blinken’s visit to Papua New Guinea reinforces the US’s unwavering commitment to the Pacific region. He is expected to meet 14 Pacific island leaders during his trip. The discussions held and agreements reached during this visit will further enhance partnerships, foster regional stability, and promote the well-being of the Pacific Islands.
Thus, the US looks forward to continuing to collaborate closely with Papua New Guinea and other Pacific nations to address the pressing challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
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