China has pledged increased climate aid and development support to Pacific Island nations during a high-level summit in Xiamen.
At the Third China–Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced 100 “small but beautiful” projects over the next three years, alongside a US$2 million investment in clean energy, fisheries, and low-carbon infrastructure across the region.
Wang held bilateral talks with leaders from Kiribati, Niue, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Cook Islands, reaffirming China’s commitment to the one-China principle and offering expanded cooperation in infrastructure, health, education, and climate resilience.
Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala expressed appreciation for China’s climate initiatives, stating that Tonga “has always adhered firmly to the one-China policy” and seeks deeper collaboration in healthcare and education.
Niue’s Premier Dalton Tagelagi described the China–Niue relationship as a model of “equality and common development,” while Solomon Islands’ Foreign Minister Peter Shanel Agovaka voiced support for China’s reunification efforts and highlighted cooperation in policing, education, and cultural preservation.
The Cook Islands reaffirmed its support for the one-China principle, with Foreign Minister Tingika Elikana noting the meeting as an opportunity to deepen cooperation and unity among island nations.
China’s renewed engagement comes amid a pause in U.S. aid and rising U.S. tariffs affecting several Pacific nations.
The summit concluded with a five-point consensus emphasizing mutual respect, shared development, climate action, multilateralism, and people-to-people exchanges.
China’s growing presence in the Pacific has raised concerns among traditional partners like Australia and New Zealand, particularly regarding security and geopolitical influence.
As China expands its footprint, Pacific nations navigate a complex landscape of development opportunities and strategic partnerships.
