China’s Growing Influence in the Pacific Islands Raises Concerns

Experts are increasingly worried about China’s expanding reach into the Pacific Islands. There’s a sense that China is quietly trying to establish a foothold in regions that have historically been critical for U.S. defense.

Instead of deploying troops or creating obvious military bases, analysts suggest that China is leveraging infrastructure projects and economic partnerships to gain influence in strategic areas across Micronesia. These territories have long-standing security ties with the United States.

Word has emerged that a Chinese-backed airstrip on Yap Island is set for a formal opening on February 9th. The President of the Federated States of Micronesia is expected to be present, along with representatives from the Chinese companies involved.

Cleo Pascal, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, recently visited the Federated States of Micronesia. She spent several nights on a cargo ship donated by China to observe a ceremony for restoring World War II airstrips initially constructed by Imperial Japan. She mentioned, “It’s not a huge runway, but it can bring China to our doorstep and put us in a very strategic spot.”

Evidently, the Yap Islands form a crucial east-west link along significant air and sea routes connecting Hawaii, Guam, and East Asia. U.S. military strategists value Yap as one of the Pacific’s most important locations.

Pascal highlighted that the same Chinese enterprises behind the airstrip are also engaged in a notable infrastructure endeavor on Yap: reconstructing a key bridge on the main island. In a move reflecting the site’s strategic importance, Secretary Hegseth recently announced about $2 billion for defense enhancements in Yap. However, it seems that focus is primarily on the main island of Yap, with the rest of the archipelago potentially overlooked.

Pascal pointed out that while the Army is concentrating on the main island, a greater strategy is absent for the surrounding islands. She noted, “The Chinese are finding ways to gain access to Yap through political and economic channels.”

She further mentioned the difference in strategy between the U.S. and China, stating that it’s not merely about physical infrastructure; there’s a political element, too. Meanwhile, the U.S. appears to be focusing narrowly on certain areas.

Historically, geography has played a crucial role in shaping U.S. security strategies. For instance, during World War II, the Ulithi lagoon in the Yap Islands served as a significant American naval base, pivotal for military operations against Japan.

Under the Compact of Free Association, the U.S. maintains exclusive defense rights in Micronesia, allowing Washington to control military access and secure defense facilities. However, this agreement, designed to prevent these islands from becoming bases for attacks against the U.S., is now under scrutiny due to China’s growing involvement.

Pascal cautioned that the U.S. often focuses too much on what is visibly constructed while overlooking the broader political dynamics facilitating China’s access. Strengthening relationships with local leaders and securing projects through regional banks allows China to establish its presence effectively.

Changes in Micronesian politics have also fueled these concerns. Historically cautious of Chinese investment, regions like Yap are gradually shifting closer to Beijing’s orbit. In a March 2023 letter, former President David Panuelo warned of China’s political maneuvers, including bribery and undue influence. While he lost re-election, the current administration is seen as more amenable to Chinese engagement.

In a statement regarding China’s actions, a spokesperson from the Chinese embassy said they regard Pacific Island Countries (PICs) as partners in development and deny any geopolitical aspirations. They emphasized non-interference in domestic affairs.

However, Pascal contends this viewpoint is misleading. She pointed to specific instances of Chinese efforts to sway three Pacific nations against recognizing Taiwan.

While the Chinese embassy promotes cooperation in the South Pacific, U.S. security experts emphasize a broader concern. It’s not solely about one airstrip or bridge; it’s about a gradual erosion of strategic access in a region that’s been integral to U.S. national security for decades.

China expert Gordon Chan expressed frustration, saying, “We lost many American lives to secure these islands, and now we’re letting China exert control over them. This is wrong.” He highlighted the U.S.’s obligation to act given its historical ties to these compact states.

As Pascal pointed out, China’s strategy in the Pacific is rooted in influence, access, and patience rather than military force. Neither the White House nor the Department of the Army has commented on these ongoing developments.