By Mari Yamaguchi | The Associated Press TOKYO—Leaders of 18 Pacific island nations and areas agreed to an enhanced role of Japan in the region’s development while opposing any attempted coercive activity, in a joint declaration adopted at their summit Thursday, as Tokyo seeks greater engagement to counter China’s influence.
TOKYO—Leaders of 18 Pacific island nations and areas agreed to an enhanced role of Japan in the region’s development while opposing any attempted coercive activity, in a joint declaration adopted at their summit Thursday, as Tokyo seeks greater engagement to counter China’s influence.
They noted climate change as “the single greatest existential threat to the livelihoods, security and well-being of the peoples of the Pacific” and showed their commitment to elevating their collaboration to support the region in mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told a joint press conference after the meeting that Japan and the island leaders “shared values and principles such as the rule of law, democracy and opposition to attempts to change the status quo by force.”
The declaration needs to be put into action, Brown said, adding that the region is having trouble getting climate financing and welcomed Japan’s consideration for a contribution but called on the country to “confirm earlier rather than later.” Australia and China have for years had strained relations mostly over trade, though ties have somewhat improved recently.
Her remarks were echoed by New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters who warned in a speech in Tokyo on Friday of urgent challenges and high stakes in the region as he endorsed Japan’s involvement.
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