SYDNEY, May 9, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Australia and Tuvalu said Thursday they have agreed to launch a landmark climate and security pact this year, after smoothing over the Pacific island's sovereignty misgivings. The pact also commits Australia to defending Tuvalu in the face of natural disasters, health pandemics and "military aggression", but only upon its request for aid. It is being pursued at a time of heightened concern among Western allies about China's expanding security ties with Pacific island states. But Tuvalu's government had raised concerns about a clause saying it must "mutually agree" with Australia on any security or defence deal with other countries. Before the treaty enters into force, Tuvalu and Australia said they would submit it to further parliamentary scrutiny and public consultation.
