Tuvalu and Australia sign agreement to address climate change and counter Chinese influence
In a move to combat climate change and counter China’s increasing influence in the Pacific, Australia has signed a bilateral agreement with Tuvalu, offering residency to people affected by climate change in the small island nation. The agreement covers climate change, security, and human mobility, making Tuvalu Australia’s partner of choice.
Under this agreement, 280 citizens of Tuvalu could receive a special visa to come to Australia, granting them permission to study, work, or live in the country. Additionally, funds will be provided for land reclamation in Tuvalu’s capital, Funafuti, expanding the land area by approximately 6 percent. This initiative aims to address the small island nation’s vulnerability to climate change and rising sea levels.
One notable aspect of the agreement is its acknowledgement of China’s growing presence in the region. Both Australia and Tuvalu have agreed to consult each other before signing any security or defense agreements with third parties, ensuring that China’s influence is taken into consideration.
China’s engagement with Pacific island countries has been on the rise in recent years, particularly among low-population island states. In contrast, Tuvalu remains one of only 13 nations to maintain official diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that Australia would also provide security support to Tuvalu if requested. This further strengthens the bilateral relationship between the two countries and demonstrates Australia’s commitment to protecting Tuvalu and its people.
Tuvalu, a collection of nine low-lying islands situated between Australia and Hawaii, is considered one of the world’s most at-risk countries when it comes to the effects of climate change. The nation has consistently drawn international attention to this issue and has actively sought support and solutions from the global community.
Earlier this year, Tuvalu appeared at legal hearings in Germany, seeking an advisory opinion on the obligations of countries to combat climate change. Additionally, the former Foreign Minister of Tuvalu, Simon Kofe, shared plans at the COP27 climate summit to create a digital version of the nation, replicating its islands and landmarks, as a means to preserve its history and culture in case rising sea levels render the physical islands uninhabitable.
While it was reported that all 11,200 residents of Tuvalu would be offered refuge in Australia if necessary, the official government press release following the agreement signing did not mention mass climate asylum, and the full text of the agreement has not been released.
With this new agreement in place, both Tuvalu and Australia are taking significant steps to address the pressing challenges of climate change while also safeguarding against undue external influence. This partnership demonstrates the shared commitment to protecting the Pacific region and ensuring a sustainable future for all its inhabitants.
