Leaders of 18 Pacific island nations and areas have agreed to an enhanced role of Japan in the region’s development while opposing any attempted coercive activity, as Tokyo seeks greater engagement to counter China’s influence. In a joint declaration adopted at their summit Thursday, they agreed that Japan provides greater support and cooperation in climate change, maritime security, economic development and other areas. The Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting, launched under a Japanese initiative in 1997, has become Japan’s key diplomatic tool to deter China’s growing security and economic influence in the region.
