Biden recognizes Niue, vows enhanced Pacific relations
2 Min Read
Biden expressed his keenness to closely collaborate with Niue, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the Pacific Community to bolster regional unity in the Pacific.
-
President Joe Biden walks to take his place for a family photo with Pacific Islands Forum leaders at the White House in Washington, on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023. (AP)
US President Joe Biden declared on Monday that the US has acknowledged Niue as an independent sovereign state and has inaugurated diplomatic relations with this small Pacific nation.
"Today, I am proud to announce that the US recognizes Niue as a sovereign and independent state and will establish diplomatic relations between our two nations," Biden said in a statement.
He stressed Niue's pivotal role in the Pacific, actively contributing to sustainable development, security, marine conservation, and ocean preservation in the area.
President Biden announces the U.S. is establishing formal diplomatic relations with the Cook Islands and Niue, amid a broader administration strategy to counter China in the Pacific region. pic.twitter.com/RBxlIiNPDo
— The Recount (@therecount) September 25, 2023
The establishment of diplomatic relations will facilitate expanded cooperation between the US and Niue, specifically in addressing climate-related challenges, protecting maritime borders and marine resources, and fostering sustainable economic growth, as specified in the statement.
Biden expressed his keenness to closely collaborate with Niue, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the Pacific Community to bolster regional unity in the Pacific.
Furthermore, Biden underscored that recognizing Niue's sovereignty would not only strengthen the US' relationships in the region but also enhance security and prosperity.
Read more: China's influence in South-East Asia has replaced US: The Economist
Tensions in the Pacific have been growing due to the US's increased hostility towards China and its expansion via pacifist means across the globe.
Washington has been working towards containing the growing Asian giant that it considers to be the main threat to its unipolar hegemony over the world.
China has previously warned against the formation of NATO-like alliances across the Asian-Pacific region, warning that such alliances would lead to a dangerous cycle of conflict.
The upcoming US-Pacific Island Forum Summit is scheduled for September 25-26 in Washington, where President Biden will use the occasion to reiterate the United States' dedication to common regional objectives and the strengthening of partnerships with the Pacific Island nations.
