Why Switzerland Has Interest in the Pacific Island of Niue
Published: Monday, Aug 7th 2023, 14:40
Updated At: Friday, Oct 13th 2023, 14:12
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The Pacific coral island of Niue is one of the smallest countries in the world, with 261 square kilometres and fewer than 2000 inhabitants. Switzerland is looking to establish diplomatic ties with Niue due to its strategic location in the middle of the triangle formed by Tonga, the Cook Islands and Samoa. This is part of the ongoing power struggle between China and the USA in the region, with the USA having already established a mission in Tonga and France announcing a presence in Samoa. Switzerland has long neglected Oceania, but is now looking to make up for this by establishing formal diplomatic contacts with Niue. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis met with his Niuean counterpart Mona Ainu'u in Wellington, New Zealand, with the aim of bringing Niue closer to UN institutions. Switzerland is also looking to use its two-year membership of the UN Security Council to focus on issues such as climate change, which is having a major impact on Oceania. Switzerland's influence in the Pacific is limited, however, with its diplomatic activities in the region being conducted through its embassy in Wellington. This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and New Zealand.nnnnnn
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