Australasia is, as of 2022, one of the most stable and richest regions of the World. The region is composed of five independent nations (Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands) as well as one French overseas territory (New Caledonia). The region has been relatively spared by the Covid crisis, and enjoys political stability, although Australia has complained about China's increased military and political involvement, particularly in the Solomon Islands. This led Australia to join a new military alliance with the US and the UK, called Aukus.