As part of a growing U.S. commitment to long-standing partners, President Biden announced $810 million in financing for Pacific island countries.
According to a data sheet from the White House, the country has directly contributed more than $1.5 billion to the Pacific islands during the past ten years.
The president described climate change as an “existential threat” to the Pacific islands, and the $810 million includes $130 million to mitigate its effects.
The financing for climate adaptation will support early warning systems for extreme weather events and aid Pacific island governments in preparing for how climate change will affect public health and food security.
Read also: ADSW summit to drive discussions around climate change ahead of Cop28
The first Pacific Partnership Strategy was launched by the president to prioritize U.S. involvement with Pacific island countries and foster regional prosperity. The plan expands on the United States Indo-Pacific strategy, which was released in February and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to its regional allies while detailing initiatives to foster closer cooperation.
The Biden administration’s support for $600 million in economic assistance spread over 10 years in connection with the South Pacific Tuna Treaty is also included in the recently announced assistance. If approved by Congress, this aid will promote marine security, climate resilience, and economic growth related to fisheries.
Story was adapted from The Good Men Project.
