Politics

Power play: how China and climate are heating up the Pacific

On the face of it, the Pacific Islands Forum was all about cultural displays and bonhomie. But the shadow of China – over stadiums or even graves – was never far away.

Copy link Copied Copy link Copied Subscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Already a subscriber? Login Of all scenes at this week’s Pacific Islands Forum, the weirdest was perhaps the sight of an Australian cabinet minister and a diplomat spraying perfume on Tuvaluan dancers as they shimmied in a cultural performance with Anthony Albanese as the honoured guest. In pretty much any other context, it would have seemed creepy.

But in Tuvalu culture, Pacific Minister Pat Conroy’s and Head of the Office of the Pacific Elizabeth Peak’s perfume spraying is a sign of appreciation and respect. Copy link Copied Copy link Copied Subscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Already a subscriber? Login Follow the topics, people and companies that matter to you.

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