Japan's defence report warns of China's expanding threat in the Global South

Australia has taken significant diplomatic steps to strengthen its influence in the Pacific Islands, particularly focusing on the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, and Nauru. In a series of agreements announced within a span of 12 days leading up to Christmas, Australia emphasized its commitment to assist these nations in addressing security needs and enhance development opportunities. The most notable of these deals is valued at 190 million Australian dollars, aimed specifically at bolstering the police force in the Solomon Islands over a four-year period. This move comes after a previous security pact between the Solomon Islands and China raised concerns among Australian and American officials about potential Chinese military presence in the region. Australia’s actions align with the Biden administration's efforts to reinforce its diplomatic engagement in the Pacific, as officials in Canberra and Washington increasingly perceive China’s expanding influence as a threat to regional stability. While Australia's agreements aim to foster goodwill and cooperation with Pacific Island nations, there remain significant challenges and complexities in countering China, as current Chinese military training personnel continue to be present in the Solomons. Notably, the Australian agreements did not require the Solomon Islands to modify their existing relations with China, highlighting the ongoing balancing act these nations face amidst competing geopolitical interests. In addition to its agreements in the Pacific, Japan is also responding to China's rising military outreach and is urged by analysts to strengthen security ties with the Global South. A report from the Japanese Defence Ministry's think-tank has warned that China's military engagement in developing nations is evolving and poses risks to East Asian security. Hence, efforts by Australia and Japan represent broader strategies among regional powers aiming to secure their interests and maintain a balance of influence against China's rise.