Solomon Islands Defends Strengthening Security Ties with China

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare defended his nation's deepening security ties with China, stating that the United States and Australia have nothing to fear. Sogavare signed nine agreements and memorandums during his visit to China, including a police cooperation plan. The Solomon Islands switched allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing in 2019, raising concerns about a military buildup in the region. The US and Australia have expressed concerns about the secrecy of the new police plan, but Sogavare argued that China's support complements existing Australian and New Zealand police programs in his nation.