U.S.-China & the World is an interview series investigating how the U.S.-China relationship impacts societies, economies, and policies around the globe. Through short interviews with local experts, this series takes a closer look at the countries and regions affected by and navigating through U.S.-China tensions—and ultimately, how the United States and China together can build a better future for the international community.
The Pacific Islands lie in China’s and the United States’ backyards. How can the two countries become better neighbors to the region to better the lives of those living in the Pacific? Graeme Smith, professor and podcast host, joined the National Committee on July 27, 2023 to broadly discuss the perspective from the Pacific Islands.
Graeme Smith
Graeme Smith is a senior fellow at the Australian National University’s Department of Pacific Affairs. His research team explores PRC investment, migration, military engagement, technology and aid in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. He is the co-author of The China Alternative: Changing Regional Order in the Pacific Islands (ANU Press 2021). His work is published in The Australian Journal of International Affairs, Third World Quarterly, Pacific Affairs and The China Journal. He is the winner of best article prizes in The Journal of Pacific History and The China Quarterly. He is the co-host of the awarding-winning Little Red Podcast and editor at The China Story.
He also holds a doctorate in chemistry, is the proud father of two wild boys, and is a believer in lost footballing causes, such as Derby County Football Club and the South Coogee Wanderers.
