pictured: Feleti Teo, Tuvalu PM
by Jake Sanders, Associate Editor
Australia has pledged to support Tuvalu in adapting to climate change through the Falepili Union treaty, according to Tuvalu’s Prime Minister Feleti Teo.
The agreement, signed late last year and criticized by a former Tuvalu leader as “shameful,” establishes a special visa pathway for Tuvaluan citizens to settle in Australia. Additionally, it grants Australia veto power over Tuvalu’s security agreements with other nations, particularly concerning China, as outlined in Article 4.
Article 4.4 specifies that Tuvalu must mutually agree with Australia on any security and defense partnerships with other states or entities, covering areas such as defense, policing, border security, and critical infrastructure.
Despite this, Teo emphasized in an RNZ Pacific interview that the treaty encompasses broader issues, asserting that Australia has effectively addressed Tuvalu’s concerns. He stated, “We have worked out a workable arrangement, which is fine with us, and we are on the verge of ratifying the treaty.”
The treaty commits Australia to assist Tuvalu in combating climate change impacts, such as enhancing coastal resilience against rising sea levels. The Australian government has stated that “safeguarding Tuvalu’s future lies at the heart of our Falepili Union.”
Teo expressed confidence that the treaty would help Australia reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. While there is no explicit commitment, he believes the arrangement will effectively leverage Australia’s dedication to lowering global emissions.
Former Prime Minister Kausea Natano, who signed the treaty with Australian PM Anthony Albanese, remarked that it allows Tuvalu to “maintain our identity on this planet.” He also mentioned plans to negotiate similar treaties with other Pacific nations like New Zealand and Fiji.
Teo noted that while he hasn’t yet discussed this with New Zealand, he has spoken with Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who agreed to develop a bilateral framework to enhance cooperation in various sectors.
Furthermore, Teo affirmed Tuvalu’s ongoing relationship with Taiwan and indicated no intention of shifting allegiances to China, despite Taiwan’s declining influence in the Pacific. He highlighted the democratic foundation of Tuvalu’s relationship with Taiwan and expressed hope for its continuation.
