Tuvalu’s former Attorney General Feleti Teo has been named the new prime minister of the small South Pacific nation following elections that took place a month ago, resulting in the ousting of the previous government leader. Teo was the sole candidate nominated by his 15 lawmaker colleagues, and Governor General Tofiga Vaevalu Falani declared him elected without the need for a vote, as stated by government secretary Tufoua Panapa.
The swearing-in ceremony for Teo and his Cabinet is scheduled to take place later this week. The impact of the new government on China’s influence in Tuvalu, a country with a population of around 11,500 situated between Australia and Hawaii, remains uncertain. However, experts suggest that there may not be an immediate change in diplomatic recognition.
The former prime minister, Kausea Natano, along with three of his eight ministers, did not secure reelection in the January 26th election. Natano had advocated for Tuvalu to maintain official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, a stance that was challenged by his former finance minister, Seve Paeniu, who proposed a review of Tuvalu's relationships with both Beijing and Taiwan.
China has urged Tuvalu to switch its diplomatic recognition to China, emphasizing the importance of aligning with what it considers the 'right side of history.' Meanwhile, a proposed security treaty between Tuvalu and Australia, aimed at providing assistance in response to natural disasters, pandemics, and military threats, could potentially be revised or discarded under the new government.
Australia had offered support to Tuvalu in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, including rising sea levels and increased storms. The treaty between Australia and Tuvalu, which is yet to be ratified, includes provisions granting Australia veto power over security or defense-related agreements that Tuvalu may seek with other countries, including China.
The new prime minister, Feleti Teo, is expected to review the treaty and potentially make adjustments to reflect the priorities of the new government. Despite speculation about a shift in allegiances, experts believe that maintaining relations with Taiwan is likely to remain a priority for Tuvalu in the near future.
The geopolitical dynamics in the South Pacific, particularly between the U.S. and China, continue to evolve, with recent incidents involving a U.S. Coast Guard cutter patrolling waters around Kiribati and engaging with Chinese fishing vessels. The situation underscores the ongoing competition for influence in the region.
