CANBERRA (Pacnews) — Australian Prime Minister John Howard has accused China and Taiwan of “evil” meddling in Australia’s Pacific backyard.
Howard said that Australia will be engaged in the region for up to 20 years struggling to restore order to Fiji, East Timor, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
“I can understand Australians saying, ‘Well, look, let’s forget about it and leave them to their own devices. Don’t waste any money,’ ” he said. “But that is the wrong approach because they will fall into the hands of the evil from other countries. Certainly there’s a bit of a battle between China and Taiwan.”
The prime minister’s Pacific warning came as Fiji’s military strongman, Frank Bainimarama, threatened to ask China for help if Australia opposed his regime.
Howard said Australia is increasing the size of its army to “deal with things in the region.”
He said Australia needs to work harder to stop South Pacific island nations falling into the hands of hostile groups.
Howard said Australia will need to play a major role in the region for the next 10 to 20 years to prevent instability in Papua New Guinea, Fiji, East Timor and the Solomon Islands.
The Australian government recently sent forces to East Timor and Solomon Islands to help restore law and order.
Howard said Australia is in a difficult position because of allegations of interference.