New U.S led alliance promises to listen better to needs of Pacific

WASHINGTON — A new U.S led alliance is promising to do better at listening to the needs of the Pacific.

New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom have joined an American initiative called Partners in the Blue Pacific to improve ties and engagement with Pacific leaders and people.

US Embassy Country public affairs officer, Leslie Núñez Goodman said this was a chance to do a better job serving the Pacific region.

"They want us to listen a little bit more about what to direct our money in. Foremost what we have heard is climate change and that's why this announcement is so huge because we are answering that call."

The five nations are committing to improving relationships and acting on issues that Pacific leaders are calling for.