Campbell’s Pacific Islands Trip ‘Critical’ as Beijing Exerts Influence: Experts

Ceding access to the Pacific Islands would allow Beijing to ’threaten air and sea routes used for trade by American allies and partners,' said an expert.

Leaders pose for a photo at the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, on Aug. 26, 2024. Ben Mckay/AAP Image via AP

Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell’s trip to the Pacific Islands is “critical,” a maritime strategy specialist said as experts underlined the strategic importance of the region.

Campbell led a U.S. delegate that visited Vanuatu on Thursday to officially launch a new U.S. embassy after attending the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders meeting in Tonga, while the forum also hosted its largest-ever delegation from China.