Plans to build undersea communications cables between Pacific Island nations stalled after the United States reported a China-based company was bidding on the project and could pose national security threats, according to a new report.

The project would have connected the island nations of Nauru, Kiribati, and the Federated States of Micronesia better. The World Bank reportedly backed the $72.6 million plans, but two sources told Reuters no contract was granted after the U.S. raised issues with the involvement of the Chinese communications company.