Naval Visit to PNG
The INS Kolkata guided missile destroyer and INS Sahyadri frigate will stay in PNG’s capital Port Moresby for two days, an Indian embassy official said.
The visit will “enhance maritime cooperation and security in the region”, an embassy statement added. India currently holds the rotating presidency of the G20.
Naval Exercises in Australia
The ships will then join naval exercises in Australia as part of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad, a group that also includes Japan and the United States. The Malabar exercise begins next Friday.
Security Concerns in the Pacific
The United States and its allies are seeking to deter Pacific island nations from forming security ties with China, a rising concern amid tension over Taiwan, and after Beijing signed a security pact with Solomon Islands. PNG struck a defense agreement with Washington in May.
Pacific island leaders have identified rising sea levels caused by climate change as their most pressing security priority.
Strategic Importance of the Pacific Islands
The navy port call follows a visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May to Papua New Guinea, an underdeveloped but resource-rich nation north of Australia. Modi took part in a summit meeting of Pacific nations.
China is PNG’s largest trading partner. The recent push by China into security has raised concerns among Western countries with strong national interests in the region.
Significance of the Pacific Islands in International Relations
The Pacific Islands have historically played a critical role in major transitions in international relations. In the aftermath of World War One and World War Two, the islands drew attention due to concerns over access to undersea cables and protecting strategic territories.
With China’s rise, Pacific Islands airfields and undersea cables have once again become important in the geopolitical landscape.
Western Engagement and China’s Presence
The United States is actively seeking to secure a bilateral security agreement with PNG to demonstrate its commitment to the region. Western countries have welcomed the additional interest but Pacific Island nations continue to engage with China.
The Pacific Islands seek genuine partnerships that deliver results from all countries involved.
Bullet Points:
- Two Indian navy ships, INS Kolkata and INS Sahyadri, docked in Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby.
- The visit aims to enhance maritime cooperation and security in the region.
- India holds the rotating presidency of the G20.
- The ships will join naval exercises in Australia as part of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue.
- The United States and its allies are concerned about China’s growing influence in the Pacific.
- Pacific island nations prioritize addressing rising sea levels caused by climate change.
- The Pacific Islands have strategic importance in international relations.
- China is PNG’s largest trading partner.
- Western countries are engaged in the region, while Pacific Island nations maintain relations with China.
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