U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell to represent U.S. at Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, strengthen ties amid competition with China.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell is set to represent the United States at the Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, as Washington seeks to strengthen ties in the region where it competes with China. Campbell will also visit Vanuatu and New Zealand, engaging Pacific Island leaders on the U.S. Pacific Partnership Strategy, dedicate the new U.S. embassy in Vanuatu, and co-chair a U.S.-New Zealand Strategic Dialogue meeting. The U.S. has warned Pacific island nations against accepting assistance from Chinese security forces, citing concerns over regional stability and potential Chinese influence.

August 23, 2024
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