SYDNEY, Nov 22, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Lloyd Austin touched down in Fiji on Friday,
becoming the first US defence secretary to visit the Pacific Island nation,
which has become increasingly important in a tussle for influence with China.

Austin received a ceremonial welcome after arriving in the city of Nadi on
Fiji's main island, and said the trip would focus on ways to "strengthen
regional peace and stability".

China has stepped up its courtship of South Pacific nations in recent years,
triggering concern among Western powers -- particularly the United States and
Australia -- that have historically held sway over the region.

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, a former soldier, is seen as broadly
pro-Western but recently made an extended visit to China.

There he was courted by President Xi Jinping in Beijing's Great Hall of the
People.

Fiji and China signed a series of bilateral deals on trade, military aid,
infrastructure and Chinese-language education during Rabuka's trip, according
to statements from both governments.

The United States has tried to temper China's influence in Fiji, particularly
to prevent Beijing from developing a military footprint in the archipelago.

China shocked Western nations in 2022 by revealing a secretly negotiated
security pact with neighbouring Solomon Islands.

Although small in population, the Pacific Islands sit at a vital trade,
marine transport and resources crossroads.

China has used investments, trade and diplomatic pressure to build its
regional influence.

The United States has responded by reopening embassies and paying more
diplomatic attention to the once-neglected isles.

Austin is on a two-day visit to Fiji and is expected to meet Rabuka on
Saturday.