OPINION / VIEWPOINT
By Qin Sheng Published: May 01, 2021 03:06 PM
Crystal-clear seawater along the Lalomanu beach at southern part of Upolu Island, Apia, Samoa, Oct 19, 2019. Photo: Xinhua
Australia has stood on the opposite side of the South Pacific countries by tearing up agreements signed between Victoria state and China on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China has signed BRI deals with all the 10 Pacific island countries that have diplomatic ties with China. Australia can neither force these countries to cancel the deals, nor can it move its neighbors away. Confrontation with China will not help Australia gain more influence in the South Pacific region.