Island Hopping with Chinese Characteristics: What the PRC is Doing in the Pacific Islands, Why it Matters, and Why the Time Has Come to Block and Build
Paskal, Cleo (September 2023). "Island Hopping with Chinese Characteristics: What the PRC is Doing in the Pacific Islands, Why it Matters, and Why the Time Has Come to Block and Build". Naval War College Review. 76 (4): 32. ISSN 0028-1484.
- Has attachment: File:2PISPH3W.pdf
Abstract: Explores China's strategic activities and influence in the Pacific Islands. The paper outlines China's grand strategy, which is based on the concept of "comprehensive national power" (CNP), with CNP scores being a significant goal for the Chinese Communist Party.
The document discusses how China's expansive embassies, research centers focused on Oceania, and adaptation of global initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) play roles in extending its influence. It highlights China's strategy to break the first island chain for military and geopolitical advantages, emphasizing the importance of the Pacific Islands in achieving this objective.
Furthermore, the text delves into the negative impacts of China's methods, such as weakening the rule of law and creating political instability, which can serve Chinese interests by fostering dependencies and potential proxy states . It also details the geopolitical tensions these actions create, particularly concerning countries with allegiances to Taiwan, and the increasing worry among Pacific Island leaders regarding China's hegemonic intentions.
The paper asserts the need for redefined diplomatic efforts and strategies by other nations, particularly the United States, to counter China's CNP pursuits and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region. It reveals ongoing geopolitical maneuvers and potential conflicts, especially relating to Taiwan and regional security architectures.
"...Beijing considers the three FAS to be high-value targets. All are only an election away from being absorbed into China’s version of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. There are leaders willing to take principled and courageous stands for democracy, Taiwan, and the U.S. relationship, and they are the ones warning about what may happen next. But they may not be around for long. As seen in Solomons, all China has to do is capture a couple of dozen of the elite in one of the FAS to blow a hole in the foundation of the U.S. defense architecture in the Pacific..."
