China’s pursuit of Pacific states pact ‘threatens new Cold War’

BEIJING has been accused of risking a new Cold War after it emerged that China’s foreign minister is pursuing a regional deal with almost a dozen Pacific islands that includes heightened security co-operation.

The scheme, which comprises a fiveyear action plan, signals Beijing’s intent to significantly expand its footprint in the Indo-pacific region.

It is to be discussed by Wang Yi and his Pacific counterparts in Fiji on Monday, as he embarks on a tour of the region.

In a letter sent to 21 Pacific leaders, David Panuelo, the president of the Federated States of Micronesia, said his nation would argue the “pre-determined joint communique” should be rejected because it could prompt a new “Cold War” between China and the West.

The plan would shift islands that hold diplomatic relations with China “very close into Beijing’s orbit, intrinsically tying the whole of our economies and societies to them”, Mr Panuelo added.

Fears are growing that up to 10 Pacific nations could enter a security pact similar to one agreed between the Solomon Islands and China last month that has heightened concerns that Beijing wants to establish a naval base on the strategic Pacific territory.

The scheme will put Penny Wong, the newly appointed Australian foreign minister, into an early confrontation with Mr Wang.

“China has made its intentions clear. So, too, are the intentions of the new Australian government,” Ms Wong told The Sydney Morning Herald.

Ms Wong has indicated the Pacific will be a top foreign policy priority for Canberra after describing the Solomons deal – which could allow Chinese warships to dock less than 1,200 miles from the Australian coast – as Australia’s biggest strategic blunder since the Second World War.