THE PACIFIC PLAN OF FREEDOM AND DEVELOPMENT
Taking into account the great importance of the Pacific region to the future
of mankind and difficult situation in the states of Oceania, most of which
have only recently gained independence, We offer this strategic development
plan to a wide public debate in these countries and in those that interested
in the progressive development of economic, cultural and humanitarian
potential of this region.
1. Current situation.
Pacific region is rich with inexhaustible natural resources, which yet
should be brought under control by mankind. Besides, natural features of
Oceania's islands make them the most important global recreational area.
Their strategic location makes them a potential tool for the aggressive
decisions, or a lever for peace and cooperation of peoples.
However, we must note that at present development of the states of Oceania
deviates from the line of a really free and independent development.
In the 60-80e years of twentieth century, many Oceania's countries achieved
independence. But the self-development is a difficult path, especially for
the young island nations, most of whom do not have a large territory and
population. Australia and New Zealand becouse of their geographic proximity
and economic power made an initiative to create regional bloc - the Pacific
Islands Forum (PIF), founded in 1971. Now, this organization brings together
15 States - full members. In four of these states (Tuvalu, Kiribati, Nauru,
Niue), instead of own currency used Australian or New Zealand dollars.
Australia even put forward a proposal that the Australian dollar should
become the common currency of all member countries PIF.
Australia and New Zealand are significant aid donors and big markets for
islands states exports. These two countries persue expansionist trade policy,
which resulted in foreign trade of independent states of Oceania is strongly
tied to them. Australia and New Zealand forced their PIF's partners approval
of their mandate for their military and police forces that now carry out
peacekeeping and stabilization function in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands,
Nauru and Tonga.In 2003, Australians have put forward the idea of
establishing so-called "Pacific Union". They are seeking to more closely
bind the countries of the region with the Australia.
The union, if formed, will have a common charter, institutions and currency.
In fact, the business community of Australia are pushing its government to
establishment in the Pacific similarity of the European Union.
2. Alternatives.
There are serious concerns that the regional integration, initiators and
motor of which are Australia and New Zealand, not lead to an equal
partnership but bring to subjugation and dependence of small island States
from their more powerful neighbors. The European Union is an association of
states that more or less comparable in the range of such factors as extent
of territory, population, economic capacity and the overall cultural
traditions. Unlike the European Union in case of PIF and Pacific Union we
can watch apparent imbalance and dissonance. The "Pacific Union" plan
may result in a new manifestation of neo-colonialism.
We whish a free and independent development of the peoples of Oceania, we
understand the need to move towards a multipolar world, and so we believe a
careful consideration must be given to the following measures:
- Cooperation independent island nations of Oceania within the framework of
a new independent regional organization for the purpose of economic
integration and cooperation. Benefits of such cooperation should be equal
divided among all participating States. Another purpose of the organization
is a coordination of foreign policy. As an example of fruitful cooperation
States within the framework of such organization we can point out the
Caribbean Community (CARICOM). It is necessary create a common currency,
common import-export tariffs, and other measures of economic integration.
- The rapid elimination of residues of undisguised colonialism in the region.
The full and comprehensive independence must be granted for colonies of
France (French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Wallis and Futuna Islands) United
Kingdom (Pitcairn), United States (American Samoa), Australia (Norfolk
Island), New Zealand (Niue, Cook Islands, Tokelau).
Newly states could be able to enter into a new regional organization of
equal in rights states.
- Activisation trade and cultural exchange of China, Japan and Russia with
the countries, which united in the new independent Pacific islands
organization. China, Japan and Russia would grant duty-free or preferential
tariff treatment for a wide range of products of that countries.
The development of such relations is essential for maintaining regional
balance and preventing subjection of peoples to domination by any Power.
- The development and implementation of China, Japan and Russia programs
financial, scientific, technical and other kinds of aid for the island
nations of the Pacific region. Stimulation of investment activity in the
region business circles of these countries.
3. Practical steps.
We understand that the way to the implementation of these alternatives is
not easy. The process may start with broad-based consultations, exchange of
views among all interested persons. This may be a preparatory stage for the
Conference of Governments of Island States and a start position to the
negotiation process to establish equitable regional association.
It is also necessary to conduct a broad public relation campaign to draw
attention of world public to the problems of the region, events in which are
not, for various reasons, in the focus of world media.
Inspite of perfect environment for the human, with the advent in the Pacific
western civilization island nations did not come to an equally beautiful
fortune. This historic blunder need to be fixed.
The Organizing Committee of the International Anti-Colonial League.
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