Australia seeks Fiji security deal despite China fears
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has downplayed concerns that China would back down on a proposed security agreement between Australia and Fiji.
Senator Wong held talks with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka in Suva, the capital of the Pacific island country, which implemented the Vuvale agreement, which has not yet been signed between the two countries.
This comes as Australia’s efforts to reach a similar agreement with Vanuatu suffered a blow following interventions by Beijing.
Australia’s proposed $500 million deal with Vanuatu has been shelved after the Pacific nation raised concerns it could limit its ability to seek funding from other countries.
Vanuatu is in talks with Beijing on a similar deal and has received millions of dollars from China for infrastructure work.
Senator Wong did not respond directly when asked whether he knew or expected Beijing to backtrack on the Vuvale agreement with Fiji.
“Like Fiji, we are a sovereign nation and we will make our decisions in line with our sovereign interests,” he said.
Appearing on stage with Pacific Minister Pat Conroy, the foreign minister said the Vuvale agreement would benefit both Australians and Fijians.
“This goes towards our goal of a peaceful, stable and prosperous region,” he said.
“Australians know, Australia knows, that we live in contentious times, and Australians will understand and see the challenges that our external environment places on us.
“What the government is most focused on is ensuring we work to secure Australia’s interests and security in these times.”
While Senator Wong confirmed negotiations were ongoing, there was little detail on the specifics of the agreement.
But he said the agreement would have three pillars: security, economy and people.
Mr Conroy told Fijian media that the agreement would help combat transnational crime, which both countries identify as a common threat.
He also announced that Australia would give $30 million to the Fijian government to help with the ongoing fuel crisis.
