PM leads charm offensive as Wallabies clash with Fiji
Share this @internewscast.com

They are neighbours, friends and in many cases family, but now the Pacific Islands are being seen as vital in the struggle for power in our region.

With China’s influence growing, Australia is pushing back, turning Wallabies into ambassadors.

The Fijian Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, was the honored guest in Newcastle as part of an effort to influence a crucial player in the Pacific power dynamics.

Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was the guest of honour in Newcastle as part of a charm offensive aimed at a pivotal player in the Pacific power struggle. (AP)

With China pouring billions into infrastructure projects across the Pacific Islands, Australia and its allies—unable to match financially—are leveraging sports as part of a broader strategy. Fijian workers on a special Pacific visa were present in the audience.

“We offer substantial support for rugby in the Pacific—it’s a significant way to engage with many young people,” stated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia ahead of the International Test match between the Wallabies and Fiji. (Getty)

“That essentially is about family. We are all part of the Pacific family – we have an important responsibility.”

Rugby union is the code of choice for Fiji, with the new NRL team vital for Papua New Guinea, our nearest neighbour.

The contest for hearts and minds in the Pacific has been made harder with the Trump administration cuts to American financial aid in the region.

“We are managing, and in three years hopefully things will change,” Rabuka said.

Deputy Nationals leader Kevin Hogan said “Obviously China are an important trading partner for us”.

Harry Wilson of the Wallabies is presented the Vuvale Bowl by Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia and Sitiveni Rabuka, Prime Minister of Fiji during the International Test match between Australia Wallabies and Fiji at McDonald Jones Stadium on July 06, 2025 in Newcastle, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images) (Getty)

“We have issues with China – we have things we need to talk about their leadership as well,” he told Sky’s Agenda.

The prime ministers jointly presented the Vuvale bowl to the winning Wallabies today.

Trust and cooperation in uncertain times is a much bigger prize.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Missing four-year-old Gus

Ex-Tyrrell Detective Shares Insider Insights on the Ongoing Search for Missing Boy Gus

One of the nation’s most high-profile former detectives says he’s confident South…

Australian PM Defends Kevin Rudd’s Gift Choices for Donald Trump Amid Unveilings

Opposition leader Sussan Ley has walked back on calls for Kevin Rudd…
Apple Vision Pro

Apple Unveils Exciting Upgrades: New Features for iPad, MacBook Pro, and Vision Pro

With the launch of the 2025 iPhone range now behind them, Apple…
Just one month ago, Jenna Ellen had started her first IVF treatment and was optimistic about starting a family with the love of her life

31-Year-Old Jenna’s Journey: Overlooked Cancer Warning Signs Every Young Woman Should Know

Just a month ago, Jenna Ellen embarked on her first IVF journey,…
Hannah Thomas was badly injured following an anti-Israel protest in Sydney's west.

Shocking Twist: Officer Faces Fresh Charges in Assault Case Involving Ex-Greens Candidate

A police officer already facing legal proceedings for allegedly assaulting former Greens…
For the past three years and eight months, Tom Phillips, 38, has been on the run, hiding out in the wilds of New Zealand. With him are his three children, Jayda, 12, Maverick, ten, and Ember, nine. Pictured: An image of what is believed to be the missing family, taken by a hunter

Enigmatic Partner Unveiled: Fugitive Father and Children Survive Four-Year Wilderness Escape in New Zealand

Some call him ‘The Bushman,’ while others refer to him as ‘The…
Brittany Higgins has abandoned appeals against her costly defamation battle loss to her former boss, ex-Liberal senator Linda Reynolds.

Stunned by Defamation Defeat: Higgins Drops Appeals Amid Skyrocketing Costs

Brittany Higgins has decided to withdraw her appeals related to the loss…
James Vlassakis arrives at the Adelaide Magistrates Court.

Attorney-General Demands Urgent Review: Controversial Parole Decision for Infamous Snowtown Killer Under Scrutiny

The South Australian attorney-general has taken steps to challenge the recent decision…

White House Confirms No Immediate Plans for Trump-Putin Meeting: Latest Diplomatic Update

US President Donald Trump has no immediate plans to meet Russian counterpart…

Rising Living Costs Hit Australians Hard: Unveiling a Larger Issue

Cost of living spikes continue to push living standards down. To learn…
According to clinical nutritionist, Gina Urlich, everyday seed oils could be slowly wrecking our health - and they're in everything from fast food takeaways and salad bar dressings to supermarket breads and even so-called 'healthy' snacks

Clinical Nutritionist Reveals the Common Kitchen Staple She Steers Clear Of

Many of us might casually pour a bit of oil into the…
'Nice guy': PM reveals extra details about Trump-Rudd clash

Prime Minister Shares Additional Insights into Trump-Rudd Dispute

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has backed Australia’s ambassador to the US, former…