Australia and Fiji Sign New Defense Pact Covering Mutual Defense Cooperation

According to Lianhe Zaobao citing AFP, Australia and Fiji signed a new defense alliance agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral ties as China’s influence in the South Pacific grows. The pact, called “Ocean of Peace,” makes Fiji one of Australia’s few treaty allies and sets out cooperation on “mutual defense.” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed the agreement with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during a visit to Suva, and Australia’s foreign ministry said the alliance reinforces both countries’ commitment to a peaceful, prosperous and secure region.