WASHINGTON: The United States has recognised the Cook Islands and Niue as “sovereign and independent” states and pledged to open diplomatic relations, as US President Joe Biden bolsters ties to Pacific Island nations as part of a push to counter growing Chinese influence.
In a statement on Monday, Biden said “the history and the future of the Pacific Islands and the United States are inextricably linked”.
“The United States’ recognition of the Cook Islands, and the establishment of diplomatic relations will not only strengthen the ties between our nations, it will help ensure that our shared future is more secure, more prosperous, and more free — for our people and people around the world.”
The US president is hosting the leaders of Pacific Island nations for two days of discussions in Washington, DC, this week.
The US-Pacific Island Forum Summit is expected to focus heavily on the effects of the climate crisis, as well as economic growth, sustainable development and public health.
“I want you to know I hear you. The people of the United States and around the world hear you. We hear your warnings of a rising sea,” Biden said during a news conference at the start of the discussions at the White House on Monday morning.
“We hear your calls for reassurance that you will never, never, never will lose your statehood or membership at the UN as a result of a climate crisis. Today, the United States is making it clear that this is our position, as well.”
The talks also come amid intensifying competition between Washington and Beijing. Ties between the two countries have soured in recent years over a range of issues, from trade and the status of Taiwan to China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea and the US push against growing Chinese economic and military influence in the Indo-Pacific.
But senior members of Biden’s administration have said they are seeking to manage those tensions and are not looking for confrontation with China. –Agencies
