Region: China likely identifies climate action narrative as lever for Pacific influence
On 9 September, the Solomon Islands National University hosted a delegation from China’s Island Research Center. Discussion included joint research, data sharing, and student and staff exchanges around marine disasters and climate resilience. Around 25 September, the chargé d'affaires of China’s Embassy in Fiji announced China would continue to support Fiji and other Pacific Island countries in their response to climate change. On 22 September, Vanuatu’s President outlined the importance of sustainable development and climate change during a reception at the Chinese Embassy celebrating 77 years since the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
Assessment: Speeches from Chinese diplomats highlighting recent projects and new agreements are common in late September around the PRC’s anniversary. However, climate change appears to have received higher prominence in 2026 when compared to 2025 - last year’s speeches in Fiji had a significant emphasis on economic growth and the Ocean of Peace. While climate action was not emphasised evenly across all Pacific embassies, it is a narrative vulnerability that China is likely to exploit in its competition with Australia over Pacific influence. Australia is often criticised by Pacific states for its domestic exploitation of fossil fuels while rhetorically stating solidarity with Pacific nations over climate issues. A climate support narrative from China is likely to achieve more traction now due to the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP 31) being jointly hosted by Australia and Türkiye in November, with a pre-COP leaders meeting being hosted by Fiji and Tuvalu with Australian support over 5-8 October.
Sources: Douglas Vahia, “SINU explores marine disaster cooperation with Chinese research delegation”, Island Sun, 9 September 2026; Nicholas Mwai, “China points to deepening economic ties with Vanuatu,” DailyPost, 24 September 2026; Nikhil Aiyush Kumar, “China backs Fiji on climate resilience,” FBC, 25 September 2026; Litia Cava, “China pledges investment, scholarships and climate support,” FBC, 28 September 2026; Josefa Sigavolavola, “China reaffirms support for Fiji’s development,” FBC, 25 September 2026.
