US, Australia commit $580 million in support for Pacific Islands

SYDNEY/WASHINGTON, Sept 1 – The United States and Australia on Wednesday announced a combined $580 million in funding for the Pacific Islands, as both nations battle China for influence in the region. Australia will offer a A$600 million ($430 million) package to combat drug smuggling in the region at a meeting of the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, including funds for enhanced aerial surveillance and more training for police and border officials. “The Pacific is our home and our family. That’s why it’s in Australia’s interests to work with our Pacific partners to combat organised crime,” Australian Prime Minister Anthony…