The United States Secretary of the State, Antony Blinken, is on his trip to Tonga to open a new embassy there, and he is the first American Secretary ever to visit Pacific Nation. Blinken pledged to increase support for the Islands and warned of the apparent threat of dangerous Chinese investments. He also dedicated a new American Embassy in Tonga.
America continuously tries to counter the massive increment of Chinese influence in the Pacific region, and Blinken’s visit to these islands is part of that chain. His visit to Nuku’alofa on Wednesday is the first official visit by any American State Secretary and becomes an action to counter Chinese growing influence.
Blinken pledged to essential projects for the Indo-Pacific nation and expressed that they have been watching the future in the Pacific region. His visit to these islands is much highlighted. He said they know about all the significant issues the region has been facing, the problems like climate change, development, and illegal fishing. He expressed that the United States has been working with the region, and what matters is what can really change people’s lives and create a positive impact on the nation.
Blinken also warned about the Chines aid to the Indo-Pacific region, saying their aid always comes with critical conditions. While addressing, Secretary stated with the growth of Chinese influence and investment in the region, problematic behavior has been raised. He blamed Beijing for some of the major problems and challenges in the region. He claimed China has been behind the challenging economic conditions in the region that can cause poor governance and promotes corruption.
US on Path to Grow Its Influence In the Indo-Pacific
Tonga is an island of around 100,000 people and has been making a good relationship with the United States after a major shift in American diplomatic policy towards the Indo-Pacific region. The American embassy was opened in May in the capital Nuku’alofa, considered a big American achievement but host nations declared that Blinken’s visit exhibited the White House’s interest in the region and had revived the relations. Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavemeiliku Siaosi Sovaleni expressed their relationships have been flourishing and strengthening day by day. This is a fact, and Mr. Blinken’s presence is proof.
Source: Web
Prime Minister said Mr. Blinken had been there to respect democracy, everyone’s freedom, and the rule of law and rights. Tonga warmly welcomed Antony Blinken into their state as both nations continuously tried to take their relations to the next level. Blinken is on a long tour for several days. After Tonga, he will head to New Zealand to attend a women’s World Cup match between US and Netherlands and to meet Wellington officials there. Next, he will go to Brisbane, Australia, for a meeting with American Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and their Australian counterparts on July 28-28.
