The US announced its Pacific strategy to deal with China

(Dan Tri) – The US has announced a new strategy to prioritize Pacific countries in its efforts to contain China.

US Vice President Kamala Harris (Photo: AFP).

US Vice President Kamala Harris announced a new commitment, including a plan to open an additional US embassy, in an online speech to leaders at the Pacific Island Forum in Fiji on July 13.

`We recognize that in recent years, the Pacific islands may not have received the diplomatic attention and support that you deserve. So today I’m here to give

Ms. Harris announced that the United States will appoint a special envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum to further strengthen Washington’s diplomatic presence throughout the region, as well as new embassies in Kiribati and Tonga.

Ms. Harris also announced plans to increase aid to $60 million annually for projects in the Pacific, including climate resilient infrastructure projects, combating illegal fishing and investment.

The White House said the new agreement will fall under the US Indo-Pacific Strategy.

The US is coordinating with governments in the region, including Australia and New Zealand, to strengthen relations with Pacific island countries.

Coordinator of the US National Security Council in charge of the Indo-Pacific region Kurt Campbell and US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia Daniel Kritenbrink in April led a delegation to visit a number of island countries.

Ms. Harris’s visit took place after China confirmed the signing of a security agreement with Solomon – an agreement that Washington believes is part of Beijing’s efforts to increase China’s influence and strategic presence.

Prime Minister Solomon Manasseh Sogavare sought to reassure the US and its ally Australia that the agreement does not include allowing the establishment of military bases in the island nation.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made a rare eight-day visit to the Pacific in May to sign economic agreements with several countries, including a large-scale economic and security pact.

`For many years, China and the Pacific Islands Forum have had good cooperative relations. China does not interfere in the internal affairs of Pacific island countries, and hopes to see solidarity.`