China and Australia Raise Issues of Climate Change and Security

Australia and China have pledged to provide more support to Pacific Islands in their fight against climate change, while leaders from four countries discuss declaring the strategic region "neutral" amidst the rivalry between China and the United States for influence. Climate change, security, and trade issues dominated the opening day of the summit meeting of leaders from Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji, along with the Kanak Alliance and the ruling National Socialist Liberation Front in New Caledonia. China and Australia, a U.S. ally, were invited to speak at the summit, and leaders are expected to issue a statement today, Thursday.