From rugby pitches to Pacific partnerships: The IDRC reflects growing defence alliances
The International Defence Rugby Championships have highlighted the way military sport is reflecting broader defence cooperation among the Pacific nations to confront climate challenges, security threats, and humanitarian crises.
Not only showcasing sporting spirit and military camaraderie but also reflective of deeper defence and security alliances, the IDRC has provided a platform to showcase the strength of these partnerships.
Fiji have so far delivered a strong performance and have booked their place in the semi-final. With a ruthless attacking line and relentless pressure in the contact area, they have started the tournament as they mean to go on.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) sponsor the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Women's Rugby team’s playing jerseys, serving as a reminder of their growing partnership, even as the NZDF team did not make the journey to this year's IDRC, despite hosting the first one in 2022.
This partnership was cemented through the signing of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) in June 2023, enabling the two nations to work together against the unique issues facing the region.
With climate change being a priority, both nations have firsthand experience of its devastating impact.
When Cyclone Winston struck Fiji in 2016, New Zealand delivered critical humanitarian assistance. Then, in 2023, Fiji returned the favour and supported New Zealand following Cyclone Gabrielle.
These collaborative efforts have built trust and demonstrated shared values that are now being reflected on the rugby pitch.
On the other hand, Tonga's participation in the IDRC has been strongly supported by Australia.
Earlier this year, Australia's High Commissioner to Tonga, His Excellency Mr Brek Batley, formally dedicated $1.2 million in military equipment to support Tonga's participation in Exercise Talisman Sabre during the summer.
Talisman Sabre is Australia's largest international defence exercise, bringing together forces from the US, UK, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, and Tonga to work on a unified military preparedness.
This partnership comes at a time of heightened strategic tension, as, in late February, a Chinese military task group conducted live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea, within Australia's exclusive economic zone.
Although China did not violate international law, the lack of advance notice and the unusually southern location of the drills caused concern, prompting the diversion of commercial flights.
This incident highlighted the necessity of Pacific nation collaboration in the case of a perceived future threat.
As the Australian High Commission notes: "Defence is proud of its close people-to-people links with His Majesty's Armed Forces, and in-country Australian Defence Force advisors work side by side with their Tongan counterparts every day."
Their alliance goes beyond defence strategy, with various schemes in place to allow for stronger educational and cultural ties.
On the rugby pitch, this is now demonstrated through the appointment of the former Prop for the Wallaroos, Australian Major Caroline Fairs.
The appointment of Maj Flairs highlights the intent for continued collaboration between the two nations, and her passion for the game shone through as she took to the stands to cheer the team on during the game.
As the competition continues to unfold, it is clear to see that the championship is more than just a rugby tournament.
The IDRC promises to provide not only sporting drama but also serves to provide a continued reminder of the bonds being forged in defence alliances among the Pacific nations.
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