Monday (May 30th): Wang Yi lacks support in the Indo-Pacific

Name? Wang Yi

Westphalian identity? 68

Age? Chinese

Why is he in the news? Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi went to Fiji to meet with 10 Indo-Pacific leaders to discuss increasing political cooperation with China. In the proposed agreement, China wanted to gain access to natural resources, participation in cybersecurity, and training of state police. However, the island nations did not agree to the deal, as many share the opinion of Micronesian President, David Panuelo, that it threatens regional stability.

Why do we care? The failure of the Chinese Foreign Ministry to sign a more comprehensive security agreement in the Indo-Pacific shows the region’s reluctance to commit to China fully. Despite Wang Yi’s efforts, it is clear that most nations are willing to cooperate with China on softer aspects such as COVID recovery or climate change, whereas security takes on a more ambiguous strategy. 

Why should you care?  The Indo-Pacific is strategic due to its access to fisheries, mines, and geographic position in Asia, putting it at risk of further engagement from China or the United States. Although there are already soft de facto loyalties in the region, bilateral and multilateral engagements are the most effective way for Wang Yi to force nations to show colour. You should care 8/10 about the struggle of systems between China and the US in the Indo-pacific.  

Who else cares? President Joe Biden of the United States cares as he will look to offer his Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) to the region. Days before Wang Yi’s visit to Fiji, Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama signed onto the US-led IPEF, representing a win for the United States balancing against China’s Belt and Road Initiative. 

Any further comments? Though this time China was not successful, earlier this month, the foreign ministries of the Solomon Islands and China, drafted an agreement to increase security cooperation, which they are set forth to sign.