UK to Boost Military and Economic Presence in Indo-Pacific to Counter China

The UK will expand its military and economic activities in the Indo-Pacific to enhance regional stability, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Saturday. The initiative aims to counter China’s influence, with the Royal Navy set to increase its operations in the region and join forces with Pacific island nations for additional patrols.

Prime Minister Starmer emphasized that the UK "cannot turn a blind eye" to the challenges its allies face in the Indo-Pacific, stressing the need for a proactive approach. The announcement comes as he wraps up his visit to Samoa, where he attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The new naval strategy will focus on bolstering maritime security, tackling illegal fishing, and aiding in natural disaster response—vital in the South Pacific, one of the world’s most disaster-prone areas. The UK already has two patrol vessels stationed in the Indo-Pacific, including HMS Tamar, which provided security support during CHOGM.

In addition to military support, the UK will launch a “Pacific Business Club” in collaboration with Australia, designed to encourage investment in Pacific island nations. Furthermore, a partnership with New Zealand will focus on renewable energy initiatives to attract private investors and facilitate business entry into the market.

Competition for influence in the South Pacific has intensified in recent years, raising concerns about regional militarization. Increased military and security agreements between Pacific nations, Australia, the US, and China highlight the growing geopolitical tension as Western nations seek to counter China’s expanding footprint.

Reflecting on the importance of the region, Starmer stated, "My visit to the Pacific this week has only reinforced how crucial this part of the world is to the United Kingdom’s prosperity and security. As responsible international players, we must not ignore the challenges our allies face, so this is just the beginning of our commitment to the Indo-Pacific."

This approach builds on the 2021 “Indo-Pacific Tilt,” initiated under former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, which focused on strengthening UK trade and security ties in the area. The UK’s new Pacific strategy, set to be unveiled later this year by Foreign Secretary David Lammy in collaboration with New Zealand, reaffirms the Labour government’s commitment to the region.