Graeme Smith: The top four myths about China in the Pacific

        Chinese president Xi Jinpings impending visit to Fiji, where he will meet with all of the eight Pacific leaders whose nations diplomatically recognise China, means newspapers will be filled with ruminations on Chinas strategic influence in the South Pacific and what this means for Australia and the region. Heres a bluffers guide to the top four most persistent myths that will stalk Australian media coverage over the next week.

        1. China has a strong diplomatic presence in the Pacific

        2. Chinas development assistance is linked to the resources industry

        3. Chinas development assistance, trade and investment are used to support undemocratic regimes

        4. Chinas leaders have closer ties to Pacific elites than Western leaders

        Full Text: http://www.lowyinterpreter.org/post/2014/11/18/The-top-four-myths-about-China-in-the-Pacific.aspx?COLLCC=878523544&COLLCC=2679661449&