US ramps up diplomatic presence in Pacific islands to counter China
- The State Department plans to expand staffing at new embassies in the Pacific islands.
- Each new embassy will have 40 employees and cost $10 million in startup costs.
- China already has diplomatic facilities in 8 of 12 Pacific island nations recognized by the US.
- Attracting skilled staff to remote locations will require financial incentives.
- The US aims to increase engagement in the region to compete with China's influence.
The Sydney Morning Herald 
The Messenger 
Washington Post 
Associated Press 
