The UK plans to step up its naval activity in the Pacific, including more joint fishing patrols, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to show support for US-led efforts to check China’s expanding maritime reach.
Starmer will announce increased Royal Navy operations in the region while in Samoa on Saturday to attend the final day of the Commonwealth heads of government meeting. The efforts will include expanded patrols with Pacific Island nations to respond to natural disasters and counter illegal fishing, a growing concern for the region as Chinese fleets – often escorted by government security vessels – sail further abroad for stocks.
Countries such as the US and France, which each have overseas territories in the South Pacific, have announced similar efforts.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the challenges faced by our friends and partners on the other side of the world,” Starmer said in a statement. “So my message today is clear: This is just the beginning of our commitment to the Indo-Pacific.”
The UK has sought to rebuild its historical links to the region in the wake of Brexit and will this year become the first European nation to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
While in Samoa, Starmer is expected to announce a joint effort with Australia to set up a “Pacific Business Club” to help companies bid for US$6 billion of multilateral development bank contracts. Britain and New Zealand will also announces a new collaboration to support renewable energy projects.