China and India’s Rising Presence in the South Pacific Region: A Challenge to Australia’s Leadership?

Abstract The South Pacific region has been attracting more interest for major power players. At first, Australia was the only recognizable actor in the region. Australia considers itself as the regional power and the leader of the region. Australia’s leadership allows it to provide the region with military assistance, and economic assistance. It’s leadership also allows Australia to be the most influential country in the region. however, other countries start to take interest in the region. India has started its strategic expansion to the region. India’s attempts at increasing its influence over the region is by developing stronger ties to the South Pacific countries to various aids, and investments. China is another actor that started getting involved in the South Pacific. This paper will take a look at the approach that China and India take to gain influence over the region compared to Australia. This paper will explore the theme of leadership and hegemony. In addition, it will analyze the impact on Australia’s leadership and its response towards the issue. Keywords: Leadership, South Pacific, China, India, Australia