The Pacific island nation of Nauru has switched diplomatic recognition to China.
Nauru’s switch makes way for Beijing to expand its influence. (Photo: The MIT Press Reader)
The Switch Made By The Pacific Island Nation Of Nauru
The Pacific island nation of Nauru recently switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. This switch by the Pacific island nation of Nauru may also have implications for the United States.
Taiwan’s remaining Pacific allies, the Marshall Islands and Palau have close economic and security partnerships with the U.S., and the Pacific island nation of Nauru’s decision could open opportunities for Beijing to expand its influence in these countries.
Establishing new embassies through the Pacific island nation of Nauru’s recent decision allows China to conduct influence activities, which can undermine the sovereignty of Pacific nations. With the recent switch made by the Pacific island nation of Nauru, the U.S. is concerned about China’s increasing regional presence.
According to a published article by the United States Institute Of Peace, the financial vulnerabilities of Pacific island nations are also worrisome, as they could undermine regional stability and U.S. interests.
The U.S. military has the right to construct military facilities and control the Pacific island nation of Nauru’s airspace and territorial waters in the Freely Associated States, making them strategically relevant amid rising regional tensions.
Failure To Addressing Cybersecurity Issues
In a published article by the Financial Times, US Republican lawmakers have accused Swiss industrial conglomerate ABB of failing to address cybersecurity vulnerabilities in China-made cranes that use its technology. The lawmakers raised concerns about ABB’s ties with Chinese state-owned companies, suggesting that they could jeopardize American national security.
