Explained: What is the US-led ‘Partners in the Blue Pacific’ initiative to counter China?

What is the News?

The US and its allies — Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United Kingdom — have launched the ‘Partners in the Blue Pacific’ Initiative.

What is the Partners in the Blue Pacific(PBP) initiative?

Launched by: US, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United Kingdom 

Purpose: It is an “informal mechanism” to support Pacific islands and to boost diplomatic, and economic ties in the pacific region. 

Objectives: 1) To deliver ​​results for the Pacific more effectively and efficiently ​​2) To expand cooperation between the Pacific and the rest of the world and 3) To focus on bolstering “Pacific regionalism”.

Priority Areas: The areas where PBP aims to enhance cooperation with the pacific islands include climate crisis, connectivity and transportation, maritime security and protection, health, prosperity, and education.

How is China trying to transform its ties with the Pacific?

China has signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands in April 2022. This deal has raised serious concerns for the US and its allies as the Chinese will be setting up a military base in the southern Pacific close to the US island territory of Guam and right next to Australia and New Zealand.

Moreover, China has also signed an agreement called the “Common Development Vision” with the 10 Pacific nations. The agreement speaks about China wanting to work with traditional and non-traditional security and expand law enforcement cooperation with these countries.

What other initiatives has the US and allies launched to counter China?

Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)

Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment(PGII) Initiative

Source: The post is based on the article “Explained: What is the US-led ‘Partners in the Blue Pacific’ initiative to counter China?” published in Indian Express on 28th June 2022.