US and Pacific Islands agree ‘big dollar’ partnership to counter China

News Snapshot:

It is the first time the United States has been host to so many leaders of a region it has considered its maritime backyard since World War Two, but into which China has been making steady advances. Some of the nations have complained about being caught in the middle of the superpowers’ battle for influence. Leaders and representatives from 14 Pacific island states are taking part in the summit. White House Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell said last week the summit would focus on issues such as climate change and health. Washington and its allies want to boost maritime security and...