Will Kiribati's close ties to China come at a cost?

This is a transcript from Will’s Word on 29 October, 2024:

So Taneti Maamau has been re-elected as President of Kiribati - which is no surprise really. But it's still important to note and worth mentioning I think, given his pro-China stance.

As tensions grow in the region, Maamau’s victory inevitably raises questions about what lies ahead for Kiribati.

Under Maamau’s leadership, Kiribati has developed a closer relationship with China, which has been investing heavily in the Pacific Islands.

This has led to projects like roads and schools, which could boost the economy - but it also increases the danger of over-reliance on China, doesn't it?

Inevitably this pro-China stance strains the relationship with traditional allies like us right here in New Zealand.

Dare I say a closer relationship with China might lead to cooler ties with Western countries, who may see this as a challenge to their influence.

Kiribati is also one of the countries most at risk from climate change, facing rising sea levels that threaten its existence - to which China has promised it will help, but at what cost? What's the motive behind it all really?

That's what worries me.