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Leaders from Pacific island countries gathered in Tokyo this week to discuss issues ranging from climate change to free trade agreements and security with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. China was also on the minds of many, especially with geopolitical tensions rising in the Indo-Pacific as Beijing increases its influence.
Japan, which has hosted the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) since 1997, considers the summit a central plank of its broader diplomacy in the region, which some experts see as aimed at countering China's rise. Here is a selection of stories to bring you up to date on the latest developments.
Japan, Pacific islands to boost security ties
Japan and Pacific island nations agreed Thursday to increase security, trade and climate cooperation following a three-day summit. PALM10 was attended by the 18 members of the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) and Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Read more.
PALM: 5 things to know
What is PALM and what are some of the priorities of its members? Here are five things you should know.
Palau says China exerting 'new level' of pressure
In an interview with Nikkei Asia, Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr. said pressure from China is reaching a "new level," after a tourism delegation was recently denied entry to Macao. "We're really diversifying so that we're not so dependent on Chinese tourists," he said. Read more.
Tuvalu welcomes subsea cable but worries about possible China cyberattack
Tuvalu is concerned about "forthcoming" pressure from China on cybersecurity, Prime Minister Feleti Teo told Nikkei Asia in an exclusive interview. The Pacific island nation aims to have a better internet connection with its first subsea cable in place next year. Read more.
New Zealand foreign minister calls for 'more compromise' on New Caledonia
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said on Friday that "more compromise" is needed to address the ongoing situation in New Caledonia. The comment came during his speech in Tokyo, parts of which sparked a protest from a French diplomat in attendance. Read more.
Papua New Guinea seeks free trade talks with Japan, PM says
Papua New Guinea and Japan are discussing a potential free trade agreement, PNG Prime Minister James Marape disclosed. Marape said his vision for an FTA fits with the country's ambitions to expand its trading relationship with Japan. Read more.
