Analysis of Seminar 3: China’s Influence – Security Threat or Development Partner?

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The third seminar of PG420 International and Regional Security critically examined China's growing influence in PNG and the broader Pacific region. The discussions were structured around key themes, including economic dependency, strategic sovereignty, cultural tensions, and the role of civil society in shaping national policies on Chinese engagement. The seminar provided an insightful debate on whether China represents a developmental opportunity or a security challenge for PNG.

📺 Watch the full seminar here: https://youtu.be/jU0xLql1zGM?si=edj824_2EFKZvhrh

Understanding the Belt and Road Initiative and PNG’s Infrastructure

Audrey Jakam explored both the benefits and challenges of BRI investments in PNG. She highlighted the transformative potential of Chinese-funded infrastructure but also raised concerns about debt sustainability and strategic dependency. While China’s investments address PNG’s infrastructure deficits, the long-term economic implications remain a subject of debate.

Pacific Island Nations’ Strategies for Engaging with China

Auddilliah Rennie (using Kalange Gimiseve's Zoom account) analyzed the complex relationship between China and Pacific Island nations, arguing that while China provides much-needed development support, its influence must be carefully managed. Using the Solomon Islands as a case study, she proposed three strategic approaches:

  1. Enhancing transparency and due diligence in agreements with China.

  2. Diversifying partnerships to avoid over reliance on a single power.

  3. Strengthening regional cooperation through organizations like the Pacific Islands Forum to maintain political and economic sovereignty.

This segment emphasized the need for small island states, including PNG, to navigate Chinese engagement proactively rather than reactively.

Cultural Tensions Between Chinese Traders and Local PNG Communities

John Rina addressed a key social concern—cultural tensions between Chinese traders and PNG communities. He pointed out the differences in work ethics, business practices, and perceptions of wealth as root causes of these tensions. Rina suggested:

  • Enhancing community engagement between Chinese traders and local businesses.

  • Establishing transparent communication hubs to facilitate dialogue.

  • Implementing awareness programs to bridge cultural misunderstandings.

The discussion reinforced that beyond economic ties, social cohesion is vital for long-term stability in PNG-China relations.

The Historical Context of Chinese Migration and Economic Disparities

Allison Kintau outlined the historical ties between PNG and China, noting the influx of Chinese migrants since the establishment of formal ties in 1976. The group identified ongoing tensions stemming from economic disparities and cultural differences, which have resulted in social conflicts, particularly in areas like Rabaul. They also discussed the implications of China's economic presence, suggesting it poses a security threat due to potential exploitation and loss of sovereignty.

The Role of Civil Society in Holding Governments Accountable

Irai Kaupa emphasized that civil society stakeholders play a crucial role in shaping PNG’s engagement with China. He argued that without active participation from non-government actors, government decisions regarding Chinese-led projects may fail to align with local development needs. Kaupa called for:

  • Stakeholder engagement in policy formulation to ensure sustainable development.

  • Greater transparency in Chinese investment projects to avoid corruption and exploitation.

  • A strong civil society voice in advocating for policies that serve PNG’s long-term interests.

Leveraging Great Power Competition for PNG’s Benefit

Michaeline Urro discussed how PNG and other Pacific nations can strategically leverage the ongoing competition between China and Western powers. She proposed using this competition to:

  • Secure economic investments from multiple global actors.

  • Advocate for climate change initiatives, pressing both China and Western nations for stronger commitments.

  • Maintain diplomatic neutrality to extract maximum benefits while preserving sovereignty.

Her argument aligned with PNG’s traditional “friends to all, enemies to none” foreign policy approach, reinforcing the idea that strategic diplomacy is essential for navigating the complexities of great power competition.

Key Takeaways and Conclusion

The seminar concluded with a call for regional cooperation among Pacific nations to collectively manage China’s expanding presence. Participants agreed that PNG must develop long-term strategies to balance Chinese engagement while maintaining its sovereignty and economic independence. Future policymakers must:

  • Critically assess China’s role beyond a binary “threat or partner” narrative.

  • Engage civil society and local communities in investment discussions.

  • Use regional platforms like the Pacific Islands Forum to negotiate more favorable agreements.

This discussion underscored the importance of policy-driven, evidence-based approaches to managing PNG’s evolving relationship with China. PNG’s future leaders must be well-informed, strategically engaged, and regionally cooperative to maximize national benefits while mitigating security risks.

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