Posted on 28 February 2022
Modern Pacific states are fiercely anti-nuclear, with little interest in militarisation, but they are very keen on infrastructure that might lift their economic prospects. Some of these projects, such as the development of new ports or runways in strategic locations, are raising concerns due to the potential to support military logistics and access.
Pacific governments are not bystanders and are strongly opposed to militarisation by any government in the region, whether Chinese, Australian or US. Former Vanuatu Foreign Minister, Ralph Regenvanu states that “We are opposed to any militarisation of the Pacific and the militarisation of the Pacific continues.” He says, “It’s not in anyone's interest as it threatens sustainable development of Pacific countries.”