Key facts
- New Zealand is considering joining the 'Ocean of Peace Alliance' between Australia and Fiji.
- The alliance commits signatories to mutual defence if attacked.
- Fiji's treaty with Australia is its first formal alliance.
- Australia has formal allies including the U.S., New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea.
- The alliance allows for other Pacific states to join.
- New Zealand's decision will be made by cabinet after discussions with Australia and Fiji.
New Zealand is contemplating joining a defence alliance established between Australia and Fiji, according to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The 'Ocean of Peace Alliance,' signed on Monday, obligates both Australia and Fiji to provide mutual aid in the event of an attack, a move seen as a counter to China's increasing regional influence.
This treaty marks a significant step for Fiji, establishing its first formal alliance, and positions it as Australia's fourth formal ally, joining the United States, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. The agreement explicitly permits other Pacific nations to become members.
New Zealand's Foreign Affairs Minister, Winston Peters, emphasized that the alliance aligns with a long-standing approach of Pacific-led responses to regional security issues. He noted that elevating the relationship with Australia, Fiji, and other Pacific nations to an alliance would foster closer partnerships.
Currently, New Zealand's sole formal ally is Australia, though it is part of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network and a key partner of NATO. The New Zealand government will now engage in discussions with Australia and Fiji regarding its interest in joining the pact, with a final decision pending cabinet approval.
The announcement comes in the wake of China's recent military action, which included test-firing a missile from a nuclear-powered submarine into the Pacific Ocean on Monday, an event that has drawn concern from leaders across the region.