New Zealand’s interest in joining a newly signed defence pact between Australia and Fiji may mark the start of a broader hard security alliance covering the South Pacific, but analysts warn smaller states’ concerns are likely to go unaddressed.
The Ocean of Peace Alliance, signed by Australia and Fiji on July 6, binds Canberra and Suva to come to each other’s defence if attacked.
Days later, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon welcomed the pact and signalled Wellington’s interest in joining, saying his country and Australia shared a close bond with a military alliance that “continues to go from strength to strength”.
“We also have a strong and enduring relationship with Fiji,” he said on Thursday, describing a partnership with Suva built on years of shared work towards “a safer region for all”.
“So engaging with them on this alliance is logical,” Luxon added.
For Fiji, the alliance marks its first-ever formal mutual defence treaty. For Australia, it is the fourth, following pacts with the United States, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.