↗ Amidst increased Chinese engagement in the Pacific Islands, the US recently hosted the first ever Pacific Islands Summit in Washington

↗ The new ‘Declaration on US-Pacific Partnership’ marks a shift by the US towards greater involvement with Pacific Island countries but leaves room for improvement

↗ Not all Pacific Island Forum countries were represented at the Summit, signaling a lack of care and understanding by the US

↗ The US runs the risk of being seen as only engaging with Pacific Islands countries to preserve its own power, rather than as a genuine partner

↗ Washington must reconsider its diplomatic approach in the Pacific if it is to improve its relationships and presence in the region