An Analysis of US Interests and Policy in the South Pacific
Dorrance, John C. (June 1980). An Analysis of US Interests and Policy in the South Pacific. VNational Security Affairs Monograph Series (Report). Washington, DC: National Defense University. p. 105.
- Has attachment: File:PGRR37VW.pdf
Abstract: Oceania, the myriad island-states dotting a 25-million square mile expanse of the South Pacific, rarely commmands worldwide attention,-Since the historic battles of World War II,change in the area has been peaceful, local politics have been stable, and relations between the United States and the various governments have been friendly. Nevertheless,'tJ-ere have been recent social, political, and economic changes which suggest the desirability of a reassessment of US interests.
In this monograph, John Dorrance provides a thorough analysis of4he political environment and the policy issues in the South Pacific and identifies potential destabilizing factors, such as the continuing process of decolonization. This phenomenon has implications for the region as a whole, including the several remaining US territorial possessions. The potential for some form of Soviet presence in the area in the 1980s presents another possible destabilizing element. "Dorrenc j also discusses other issues such as: access to sea resources; changing leadership patterns and internal economic problems; proximity to strategic sea lanes; and US relations with allies on the periphery of the region.,Jhe author suggests that managing these factors will require a policy of creative partnership with the nations and peoples of Oceania.
"...Although the Trusteeship is expected to terminate in the early 1980s, political links will continue through a territorial relationship with the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas whose inhabitants will become American citizens, and through a free association relationship with the three new states which will emerge from the trusteeship. Under that relationship the three Micronesian states will be fully independent with respect to their internal affairs and have control of their foreign affairs, except in defense matters. The US will retain responsibility for the defense of the islands and for related security matters, will have limited base rights and options for future bases, and will continue to subsidize the three states with budget support grants and program aid. The free association relationship will be unilaterally terminable by any of the parties, and will in any event run only for fifteen years unless extended by mutual consent. The possibility that one or more of the three states will ultimately opt for full independence is thus present..."
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MAG: 1544329341 OpenAlex: W1544329341 CorpusID: 129788299
