World’s sudden interest in Papua New Guinea

World's sudden interest in Papua New Guinea

Port Moresby: A Geopolitical Prize in the Contest Between America and China

Ringed by verdant hills, the harbor of Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG), has become a hotbed of military and diplomatic activity, reminiscent of the second world war. The presence of international vessels like the JS Izumo, the largest ship in the Japanese navy, the British naval-patrol vessel HMS Tamar, and the French vessel La Glorieuse, as well as upcoming visits from an American coast-guard cutter, have transformed the city into a geopolitical prize. This renewed interest is not only due to its strategic location but also its natural resources and growing influence in the Pacific Islands Forum.

Strategic Importance and Natural Resources

PNG’s close proximity to Guam, America’s main military hub in the Pacific, and its control over the approaches to Australia, have contributed to its growing significance in the new geopolitical era. In addition to its rich reserves of gold, PNG is also abundant in minerals essential for the green revolution, such as nickel and copper. Furthermore, the country has emerged as a leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) through partnerships with American and French oil firms.

China’s Challenge to American Dominance

America has traditionally considered the Pacific as its own domain, relying on Australia to handle much of the diplomatic work in the region. However, China surprised both nations last year by signing a security pact with the Solomon Islands, signaling its intention to challenge American dominance. In response, the Biden administration embarked on a series of visits, summits, and diplomatic missions to strengthen partnerships across the region. The recent defense cooperation agreement between the United States and PNG is a notable counter-move to China’s pact with PNG’s neighbor.

Strengthening the “Unbreakable Alliance”

During Antony Blinken and Lloyd Austin’s visits to the region, announcements were made to reinforce the “unbreakable alliance” between the United States and its partners. These measures included upgrading military bases in northern Australia, increasing the presence of American forces, establishing joint logistical hubs, and tightening the alliance with Japan. The goal is to enhance cooperation across various domains, including space and missile production acceleration in Australia.

Seeking Balance and Economic Benefits

While the United States and China vie for influence in PNG, the country’s Prime Minister, James Marape, professes to be a friend to all and an enemy of none. Marape emphasizes the importance of peace, tolerance, and democratic values in his country. Acknowledging the need to strengthen PNG’s defense forces, he sees the United States as the natural partner due to its status as the “biggest democracy and the biggest military.”

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The defense agreement aims to bring economic benefits to PNG. Marape expects it to unlock a “cascade” of opportunities. He downplays concerns about China’s stance on the pact, stating that it will continue to rank first in trade and economic relations. However, the Chinese Communist Party’s Global Times criticizes the United States for its “mafia-like moves” and the formation of small cliques in the South Pacific region.

Uncertain Future and American Strategy

America’s strategy of weaving security partnerships in Asia has made significant progress, although it falls short of China’s vision of an “Asian NATO.” While there are no guarantees that these alliances will result in direct military support for the United States in a future conflict with China, the effort to build relationships today improves the likelihood of rallying allies tomorrow. This approach also raises uncertainty for China, which cannot predict which countries may join or avoid a potential conflict.

As geopolitical tensions continue to simmer between America and China, Port Moresby finds itself at the nexus of this contest. For PNG, it affords an opportunity for economic growth and the potential to enhance its defense capabilities. However, the country’s challenges, including poor development indices, corruption, logistical difficulties, and internal political complexities, will need to be addressed to fully benefit from its evolving geopolitical role. Only time will tell what the future holds for Port Moresby and the countries competing for influence in the region.