Tuvalu seeks to retain statehood if it sinks completely as sea levels rise
GuardianMAR 15 2022
This is a historic agreement for both the Pacific microstate of Tuvalu and Australia. On one hand, it will allow Tuvaluans to migrate gradually and with dignity, as the country is at risk of disappearing due to climate change. On the other hand, this three-part integration initiative marks a significant victory for Canberra in its efforts to keep Beijing at bay in the region.
Australia has long been the bully in the South Pacific, acting as the manager of the US in what they perceive as the country's backyard and treating island nations as vassal states with a colonialist mentality. This treaty with Tuvalu is just the latest attempt to protect its hegemonic system while China seeks to ramp up cooperation and economic exchanges in that region.