Sept 29 (Reuters) – The United States and Pacific island nations vowed to strengthen their partnership in a declaration released on Thursday, the second day of a summit, as Washington tried to address their needs amid its concerns over China’s role in the region.

“Pacific leaders welcome the United States’ commitment to enhance its engagement, including by expanding its diplomatic presence, the ties between our peoples, and U.S. development cooperation across the region,” the declaration, released by the White House, said.

Reporting by Costas Pitas, David Brunnstrom and Michael Martina; editing by Kanishka Singh

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