Leaders attending the Pacific Islands Forum in Koror, Palau, posed for a group photo after a plenary meeting on September 2.
This year’s 18-member forum has been overshadowed by tensions between Taiwan and China, with Beijing objecting to the island’s presence at the summit. Hosts Palau invited Taiwan to attend sideline events as an aid partner, along with China and other non-Pacific countries.
Australia and the USA announced a combined $580 million in funding for the Pacific Islands, as both nations compete with China for influence in the region.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia will offer a $430 million package to combat drug smuggling in the region at a meeting of the Pacific Islands Forum, including funds for enhanced aerial surveillance and more training for police and border officials.
In a separate announcement, the U.S. State Department announced $150 million in regional funding, including $60 million to help Pacific Island nations address the global energy crisis by expanding fuel storage and supporting grid stability.
(Media courtesy: @ForumSEC)
