Values Over Money: Former Diplomat Says Beijing Unlikely to Win Over the Pacific

Australia’s former senior diplomat to Papua New Guinea says the people of the Pacific cannot be won over by money.

Australian High Commissioner, Ian Kemish AM, presenting a medallion to Edgar Jaupa in Kokoda, Papua New Guinea, on Nov. 3, 2010. AAP Image/Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

BRISBANE, Australia—Beijing’s efforts to extend its influence in the South Pacific is unlikely to undermine the West’s relationship with the region, says a former diplomat.

Ian Kemish, Australia’s former ambassador to Germany and high commissioner to Papua New Guinea, said Australian authorities were engaged in a “contest of values” for the region.