Wed May 28 06:34:36 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**China Hosts Pacific Island Nations in Bid to Deepen Ties Amid Rising Regional Competition**

**XIAMEN, China** – Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is chairing a high-level meeting in Xiamen with top diplomats from 11 Pacific Island nations, signaling Beijing’s intent to strengthen its influence and forge closer ties in the strategically important region. The two-day event, which began Wednesday, marks the first in-person gathering of its kind in China.

Delegations from Kiribati, Niue, Tonga, Nauru, Micronesia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, Fiji, and Samoa are participating in discussions focused on trade, infrastructure development, poverty alleviation, sustainability, and climate change.

Analysts suggest China is leveraging the meeting to expand its economic and diplomatic reach, particularly as the United States faces criticism for wavering foreign policy. “For China, this is an opportunity to extend its influence and expand economic ties at a time when the United States is showing very little interest in this region,” said Al Jazeera’s Katrina Yu, adding that many Pacific nations align with China on matters of investment, infrastructure, trade, and security assistance.

The meeting follows China’s recent security accord with the Solomon Islands, raising concerns about Beijing’s growing security presence in the region. Experts believe China aims to establish itself as a key security player, offering support to individual Pacific countries, especially in areas like policing.

The topic of Taiwan, which China claims as its own, is also anticipated to be addressed. Beijing has been actively working to reduce the number of Pacific nations recognizing Taiwan, with Nauru switching its allegiance last year.

The region holds significant strategic value due to its crucial shipping lanes, deep-sea cables and ports, and potential mineral deposits. Its proximity to US territories and Australia further enhances its strategic military importance.

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