The relationship between the United States and China has significant implications for the Asia-Pacific region, as emphasized by Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. Speaking at the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum in China last week, he noted that Fiji’s future is intricately linked to the interactions between these two global superpowers.
Alongside Major-General Kalouniwai at the forum was Pio Tikoduadua, the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration. He expressed that a harmonious relationship between the U.S. and China could lead to peace and prosperity for smaller nations like Fiji, while rising tensions could threaten stability and increase the risk of conflict.
Major-General Kalouniwai highlighted the undeniable interdependence of the economies of the U.S. and China, which has thus far been managed well. However, he raised concerns about China’s growing influence and the intensifying rivalry that could affect future relations. He questioned whether the two nations would coexist peacefully or engage in strategic competition or hostility.
The choices made by the U.S. regarding its stance toward China are critical, as they could reshape global power dynamics and lead to significant consequences. Major-General Kalouniwai stressed the importance of U.S. decisions in the context of regional and global security.
Additionally, he supported Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s initiative of establishing a Zone of Peace in the South Pacific. This concept promotes principles of non-aggression, non-interference, and peaceful resolution of disputes among nations, fostering an environment conducive to dialogue and cooperation essential for lasting peace in the region.