Australia Changes Tack, Focuses on Sport to Win the Pacific From Beijing

Amanaki Lelei Mafi of Japan being tackled by Latiume Fosita of Tonga during the Pacific Nations Cup match between Japan and Tonga at Hanazono Rugby Staidum in Higashiosaka, Osaka, Japan, on Aug. 3, 2019. Koki Nagahama/Getty Images

Australia is considering an ambitious sporting diplomacy mission to deepen engagement in the South Pacific region, amid increasing competition with Beijing’s encroaching hegemony.

“Team AusPac” is an initiative being recommended to the federal government following an extensive inquiry into improving trade and relations with Pacific Island nations.