(Dan Tri) – As security treaties between the US and Pacific island countries become uncertain, China seeks to increase its influence in this region through investments, including investments in
President of the Federated States of Micronesia, Mr. David Panuelo, visits China.
In China, earlier this month, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, Mr. David Panuelo, paid a visit to the Great Wall.
According to SCMP, Chinese investment in Micronesia also reached a record level at the time of Mr. Panuelo’s visit, which marked 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Most of China’s investments go to the Micronesian state of Chuuk.
Micronesia is one of three Pacific nations that have a defense agreement with the United States called the Compact of Free Association (COFA).
Attracting America’s traditional ally
The US has COFA security treaties with Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands.
With a population of only about 113,000 people, Micronesia depends heavily on remittances sent home by citizens working in the US as well as financial support from Washington under the COFA treaty.
The impending expiration of COFA makes the relationship with Washington uncertain, while giving Chinese investment even more influence.
“Mr. Panuelo’s visit to China is an example of how China can do very little but gain a lot.
The value of trade between Micronesia and China has increased nearly 30% per year in the past 5 years.
During his recent visit to China, Mr. Panuelo called China his top economic partner, and the US his top security partner.
Bang Chuuk – `Strategic card`
If Chuuk state votes to secede from Micronesia next March, this means they are no longer bound to COFA, opening up opportunities for other partners, especially China.
Chuuk is home to the deepest sea in the Pacific Ocean, so it has special value for strategic military activities and submarine operations.
Associate Professor Jian Zhang said that Beijing may look for opportunities to build a military port with a commercial cover here.
However, Mr. Patrick Buchan at the Center for International and Strategic Studies in Washington, said that Chuuk may separate from the Federated States of Micronesia, but they may not withdraw from COFA.
While negotiations are deadlocked, China may know how to `win` US partners by discussing the most pressing issue in the Pacific island countries: climate change.
Minh Phuong Summary
