Bougainville: The U.S. Needs a Proactive Approach Toward the

Furthermore, the agreement grants Beijing the right to send Chinese military forces to the Solomon Islands to “protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects.”19 Bougainville has historically possessed strategic and military value. [...] Over the past three decades, China has engaged in a broad economic and diplomatic expansion across the South Pacific, courting governments and funding infrastructure projects as a means of enhancing its influence, much as it has done in Africa and Central Asia.27 China includes the nations of the South Pacific in its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and has courted them using multiple means of engag. [...] Ambassador to PNG and an official for the United States Agency for International Development in 2016.36 Former Secretary of State Michael Pompeo congratulated PNG and Bougainville “on the peaceful completion” of the December 7 referendum, with the U. [...] Australia provides similar infrastructure development aid to the rest of PNG43 and has taken the lead on the redevelopment of the naval base on Manus Island intended for American, Australian, and Papua New Guinean ships.44 Recommendations for the United States As negotiations between PNG and Bougainville continue, there are some guiding policies the U. [...] The DFC works with the private sector to invest in various energy, health care, critical infrastructure, and technology projects.49 Such types of projects in PNG and Bougainville would represent long-term commitments and investments in the region that directly improve the lives of citizens.