Pacific nations look through Xi's ill intent; Reject Chinese sphere of influence

In a big setback for Xi, 10 Pacific island nations rebuffed China's push for a regional security pact. 10 pacific nations' rejection came amid worries the proposal was designed to pull them into Beijing's orbit. Talks in Fiji between Chinese FM Wang Yi & leaders from the small island nations failed to reach an agreement. China is offering to radically ramp up activities in south pacific, challenging the influence of the U.S. & its allies. FM Wang Yi's diplomatic blitz tanked, and Chinese officials admitted their entreaties had fallen short. Wang Yi's face-saving announcement - 10 nations agreed to memorandums of understanding on 'belt & road' project.