China Courts Pacific Island Nations to Strengthen Diplomatic and Trade Ties

China is hosting a high-level meeting with 11 Pacific Island nations in Xiamen to deepen diplomatic and trade ties, focusing on trade, infrastructure, climate change, and security. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is chairing the meeting, attended by leaders from countries including Kiribati, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea. Analysts view this as China’s strategy to expand its influence amid reduced U.S. engagement. China has already signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands and seeks similar deals. Taiwan’s diminishing diplomatic ties in the region are also expected to be discussed, with the Pacific region holding key strategic and military importance for Beijing.