Canberra Wins the Pacific Aid Numbers Game, but Loses the Domestic Plot on AUKUS

Australia poured $2.15 billion into Pacific aid in 2024 — 37% of all development finance flowing into the region, three times more than New Zealand and miles ahead of China's 6% share, according to the Lowy Institute's latest Pacific Aid Map. The data lands as China's ambassador Xiao Qian departs Canberra after 4½ years, replaced by Liu Jinsong, a veteran of Beijing's Asian affairs department. Xiao told an audience including DFAT deputy secretary **Elly...