Fiji, Sept. 16 -- The United States says it will deepen its economic, energy and security engagement with Pacific island countries, with a focus on private sector investment, maritime security and reducing the region's vulnerability to energy shocks.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matt Murray said the commitment was demonstrated during Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau's recent visit to Palau for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders' Meeting, where the United States announced more than US$150 million in support for the Pacific.

Murray said the funding would support energy security, critical infrastructure, commercial diplomacy, trusted digital technology, law enforcement cooperation, maritime security and scientific and tec...