Pacific Island States and Japan Express Strong Opposition to Unilateral Attempts to Change Status Quo

Japan and Pacific island states express strong opposition to unilateral attempts to change status quo

In a joint statement issued after a three-day summit in Tokyo, Japan and the 18 Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) members voiced their strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by the threat or use of force or coercion. While the statement did not explicitly mention China, it is widely seen as a veiled reference to Beijing’s growing influence and military capacity in the Asia-Pacific region.

The language used in the declaration at the 10th triennial Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) talks was notably stronger than in previous statements, indicating a growing concern among the participants about the rapid military buildup in the region. The leaders emphasized the importance of ensuring a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Asia-Pacific region and called for proactive, responsible, and transparent engagement to uphold regional peace and security.

Japan, with the support of the United States, has been strengthening defense cooperation in the hotly contested Pacific region where China is also increasing its presence through aid for infrastructure and security. The strategic importance of the region is highlighted by the fact that ships carrying vital energy imports to Japan pass through the waterways surrounding the PIF members, which are also important fishing zones for Japan.

The changing geopolitical landscape in the region was acknowledged by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who highlighted the complex challenges faced by the participants. The statement also referenced recent developments such as China’s security pact with the Solomon Islands and Nauru’s decision to cut ties with Taiwan in favor of China.

The PALM summit serves as a platform for Japan and representatives from PIF nations, including Australia and New Zealand, to discuss regional issues and strengthen cooperation. The joint statement called for a free, open, and sustainable maritime order based on the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of respecting national sovereignty and strengthening defense exchanges through port calls in the Pacific by Japan Self Defense Force (JSDF) aircraft and vessels.

Overall, the strong opposition expressed by Japan and the Pacific island states to unilateral attempts to change the status quo reflects the growing concerns about regional security and stability in the face of China’s increasing influence and military presence in the Asia-Pacific region.