Australia Proposes Multinational Pacific Police Force

Australia has secured support from Pacific leaders for the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI), aimed at countering China's influence in the region. The initiative, announced during the Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, includes a commitment of $400 million over five years to enhance police training and establish regional policing centers, with the goal of improving internal security and crisis response capabilities among Pacific nations. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that the PPI is a Pacific-led initiative designed to foster cooperation and mutual support. The plan involves the creation of a multinational police force and up to four training centers, with one already established in Papua New Guinea. This initiative is seen as a strategic move to maintain regional peace amid China's growing security presence, particularly in the Solomon Islands. While some nations have expressed concerns about the initiative, others view it as a necessary step for regional stability and security.