U.S. Seeks to Deepen Pacific Island Ties Through Investment and Infrastructure

A recent summit hosted by the U.S. Department of State, Indo-Pacific Command and the East-West Center brought together leaders from 16 Pacific Island countries and territories with American business executives to explore increased U.S. Investment and strengthen economic and security ties. The “Pacific Agenda: Investment, Security, and Shared Prosperity Summit,” held in Honolulu from February 22-24, 2026, focused on addressing critical connectivity and economic development challenges facing the region.

Addressing Connectivity Challenges

A primary concern voiced by Pacific Island leaders was the high cost and limited availability of transportation and internet access. Tonga’s Prime Minister, Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua, emphasized the need for increased flight options and improved digital infrastructure, including submarine cables and access to services like Starlink, to enhance regional connectivity. Currently, flights between islands can be prohibitively expensive, with a flight between Hawaii and Guam averaging around $2,000 – often exceeding the cost of flights to destinations in Asia, and Australia.

Leaders highlighted the inefficiencies of current travel routes, citing examples of lengthy journeys between nearby islands that require connections through distant hubs like Auckland, New Zealand. Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. Noted that a round-trip flight to Guam can cost $2,000 for a seven-hour flight, a price he considers excessive.

Private Sector Engagement and Investment

The summit facilitated discussions between Pacific Island leaders and representatives from over 80 American companies, including major players like Google, APTelecom, Starlink, Matson Shipping, and Salesforce. The goal was to encourage private sector investment in the region and identify opportunities for collaboration. According to East-West Center President Celeste Connors, the summit aimed to “share with Pacific leaders that [the U.S.] is the partner of choice” by providing resources and de-risking mechanisms to make investments more feasible.

Josh Green, Governor of Hawaii, who likewise sits on the East-West Center’s board of governors, indicated significant interest from businesses looking at Hawaii as a potential gateway for deeper engagement in the Pacific.

Infrastructure Development and U.S. Strategy

U.S. Officials announced commitments to fund the completion of a high-speed undersea internet cable to the Marshall Islands, enabling 5G connectivity, and to support a new high-speed cable to American Samoa. These investments reflect a broader U.S. Strategy to counter China’s growing influence in the region, particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau called for a renewed spirit of collaboration, referencing the rapid construction of airstrips during World War II as a model for efficient infrastructure development. He urged attendees to overcome bureaucratic obstacles and prioritize projects that benefit the Pacific Islands.

Addressing Immigration Concerns

Tonga’s Prime Minister Fakafanua raised concerns about recent restrictions on visas for Tongan citizens, imposed during the Trump Administration due to alleged national security concerns. He emphasized the importance of freedom of movement for strengthening ties and facilitating educational and cultural exchange, noting Tonga’s contributions to U.S.-led military operations and its participation in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise.

Looking Ahead

The Pacific Islands Forum will hold its annual leadership meeting in Palau this summer, providing a continued platform for discussions on deepening business ties and regional cooperation. Whipps expressed optimism that the summit would lead to increased investment and opportunities for the Pacific Islands, including the potential for expanded cruise ship tourism and improved air connectivity.

The East-West Center, established in 1980, continues to play a vital role in fostering relationships between the U.S. And Pacific Island nations through capacity building, leadership exchange, and policy-relevant research. (Pacific Islands Development Program – East-West Center)