SUVA, Fiji, July 6 : Australia signed a new defence alliance with Fiji on Monday, bolstering ties as it seeks to outmanoeuvre China’s push to hold sway in the South Pacific.
The Ocean of Peace alliance elevates Fiji to one of Australia’s few treaty allies and binds each nation to come to the other’s “mutual defence”.
China sent waves through the region in 2022 when it signed a secretive security pact with Solomon Islands, stoking fears it could one day lead to a permanent military presence.
Australia has greatly upped its diplomatic efforts in response, securing new deals with the likes of Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Tuvalu.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed the alliance with his Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Rabuka during a trip to capital Suva.
“The alliance reinforces Australia and Fiji’s commitment to a peaceful, prosperous and secure region,” said Australia’s foreign affairs department.
