Beijing is all set to expand in South Pacific region but China's expansion plan is troubling West and that has now led to an Australia vs China fight in Oceania.

South Pacific: After Solomon Islands, China signs security pact with Samoa

Wang Yi, Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in Solomon Islands on Thursday (May 26). This is his first stop of eight-nation Pacific tour. His visit to Solomon Islands has assumed importance in light of the security agreement between China and the island nation.

Reuters reported that a leaked draft communique revealed Chinese plans of agreement with ten island countries in the Pacific Ocean. These agreements will reportedly cover policing, security, trade, marine and data communication.

Wang Yi's visit signifies greater Chinese push into region traditionally considered to be backyard of Australia and New Zealand. Australia is part of the Quad grouping with India, US and Japan. The grouping is often perceived to be a move against Chinese influence. China has regularly expressed its displeasure aimed at the Quad grouping.

Solomon Islands has recently signed a security pact with China. The island nation went ahead with the pact despite objections from Australia, the United States, Japan and New Zealand. There are fears that the pact would pave way for Chinese military in Pacific Ocean.

Meanwhile, Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong will travel to Fiji on Thursday to meet with its prime minister, her first Pacific visit since being sworn in on Monday (May 23).

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Wang Yi, Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in Solomon Islands on Thursday (May 26). This is his first stop of eight-nation Pacific tour. His visit to Solomon Islands has assumed importance in light of the security agreement between China and the island nation.

Wang Yi, Chinese Foreign Minister arrived in Solomon Islands on Thursday (May 26). This is his first stop of eight-nation Pacific tour. His visit to Solomon Islands has assumed importance in light of the security agreement between China and the island nation. Reuters reported that a leaked draft communique revealed Chinese plans of agreement with ten island countries in the Pacific Ocean. These agreements will reportedly cover policing, security, trade, marine and data communication. Wang Yi's visit signifies greater Chinese push into region traditionally considered to be backyard of Australia and New Zealand. Australia is part of the Quad grouping with India, US and Japan. The grouping is often perceived to be a move against Chinese influence. China has regularly expressed its displeasure aimed at the Quad grouping. Solomon Islands has recently signed a security pact with China. The island nation went ahead with the pact despite objections from Australia, the United States, Japan and New Zealand. There are fears that the pact would pave way for Chinese military in Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong will travel to Fiji on Thursday to meet with its prime minister, her first Pacific visit since being sworn in on Monday (May 23). You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Chinese foreign minister arrives in Solomon Islands, all eyes on the recent pact

There have been a lot of chatter about China building a military base in the Solomon Islands, but foreign minister Wang Yi has made it clear that they have no such intention. The Chinese minister, who is currently on a tour of the Pacific islands, dismissed all the speculations which were born out of their recent security pact with the island nation. The rumours started when a leaked copy of the agreement showed that it contained a provision that allowed China to deploy their navy as part of the new agreement. However, China said that it was "above board, with honesty and integrity".

"It is not imposed on anyone, nor is it targeted at any third party. There is no intention at all to establish a military base," Wang told a news conference according to an AFP report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-72-magnitude-earthquake-shakes-southern-peru-482387">Powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake shakes southern Peru</a>

The leaked document created tensions in Australia – a nation which is quite close to the Solomon Islands – but Wang said that the fears were completely baseless at the moment.

"China's cooperation with Pacific Island countries does not target any country and should not be interfered or disrupted by any other country," he added in the press conference.

The foreign minister also took a shot on Australia for saying the islands were 'in their backyard'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putins-ally-says-ukraine-closedpoland-next-in-a-chilling-new-video-482354">Russian President Putin’s ally says ‘Ukraine closed…Poland next’ in new video</a>

"They are not the backyard of anyone. All the Pacific Island countries are entitled to make their own choice instead of being just mere followers of others," the foreign minister said through a translator.

"Any smears and attacks on the normal security cooperation between China and Solomon Islands are not above the board and any such disruption will not get anywhere," he concluded.

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(With inputs from agencies)

There have been a lot of chatter about China building a military base in the Solomon Islands, but foreign minister Wang Yi has made it clear that they have no such intention.

There have been a lot of chatter about China building a military base in the Solomon Islands, but foreign minister Wang Yi has made it clear that they have no such intention. The Chinese minister, who is currently on a tour of the Pacific islands, dismissed all the speculations which were born out of their recent security pact with the island nation. The rumours started when a leaked copy of the agreement showed that it contained a provision that allowed China to deploy their navy as part of the new agreement. However, China said that it was "above board, with honesty and integrity". "It is not imposed on anyone, nor is it targeted at any third party. There is no intention at all to establish a military base," Wang told a news conference according to an AFP report. Also read | Powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake shakes southern Peru The leaked document created tensions in Australia – a nation which is quite close to the Solomon Islands – but Wang said that the fears were completely baseless at the moment. "China's cooperation with Pacific Island countries does not target any country and should not be interfered or disrupted by any other country," he added in the press conference. The foreign minister also took a shot on Australia for saying the islands were 'in their backyard'. Also read | Russian President Putin’s ally says ‘Ukraine closed…Poland next’ in new video "They are not the backyard of anyone. All the Pacific Island countries are entitled to make their own choice instead of being just mere followers of others," the foreign minister said through a translator. "Any smears and attacks on the normal security cooperation between China and Solomon Islands are not above the board and any such disruption will not get anywhere," he concluded. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

China claims it has 'no intention' to build military base in Solomon Islands

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in the Solomon Islands Thursday at the start of an eight-nation tour. Wang is also planning to make stops in Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and East Timor. His trip will conclude on June 4.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on 8-nation tour in South Pacific

NASA's Earth Observatory has captured satellite images of an undersea volcano eruption which shows plumes of superheated, acidic water slowly permeating in the southern Pacific. The image was taken on May 14 by the Operational Land Imager 2 on the Landsat 9 satellite. It showed an underwater eruption of the Kavachi Volcano of the Solomon Islands, which is one of the most active submarine volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its shark inhabitants and has been dubbed “Sharkcano” after a 2015 search expedition exploring the volcano discovered marine life in the active crater. It found two species of sharks: silky sharks and hammerheads.

The researchers also found that these&nbsp;sharks&nbsp;have evolved/mutated over time to thrive underwater on sulfur. The presence of the sharks in the crater raised “new questions about the ecology of active submarine volcanoes and the extreme environments in which large marine animals can exist,” the researchers wrote in a 2016&nbsp;Oceanography&nbsp;article,&nbsp;“Exploring the ‘Sharkcano’.”

The images were shared on Twitter, showing a plume of discoloured water being emitted from the Kavachi Volcano.

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In 2015, scientists found hammerhead sharks living in the hot, acidic waters of Kavachi Volcano's underwater crater. The 'sharkano', as they called it, is erupting again. <a href="https://t.co/l4Exv5GZXy">https://t.co/l4Exv5GZXy</a> <a href="https://t.co/XS7QBHxqCw">pic.twitter.com/XS7QBHxqCw</a>
— NASA Earth (@NASAEarth) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAEarth/status/1526563193618833412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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However, this is not the first time that such eruptions occurred at Kavachi. It has happened twice, 2014 and 2017.

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The volcano erupts nearly continuously, and residents of nearby inhabitated islands often report visible steam and ash.

The island is named for a sea god of the Gatokae and Vangunu peoples, and it is sometimes also referred to as Rejo te Kvachi, or “Kavachi’s Oven”.

To view inside Kavachi's crater, the scientists&nbsp;deployed a baited drop camera&nbsp;to a depth of 164 feet (50 meters), according to the journal Oceanography.

Kavachi formed in a tectonically active area—a subduction zone lies 30 kilometers (18 miles) to the southwest. The volcano produces lavas that range from basaltic, which is rich in magnesium and iron, to andesitic, which contains more silica.

NASA's Earth Observatory has captured satellite images of an undersea volcano eruption which shows plumes of superheated, acidic water slowly permeating in the southern Pacific.

NASA's Earth Observatory has captured satellite images of an undersea volcano eruption which shows plumes of superheated, acidic water slowly permeating in the southern Pacific. The image was taken on May 14 by the Operational Land Imager 2 on the Landsat 9 satellite. It showed an underwater eruption of the Kavachi Volcano of the Solomon Islands, which is one of the most active submarine volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its shark inhabitants and has been dubbed “Sharkcano” after a 2015 search expedition exploring the volcano discovered marine life in the active crater. It found two species of sharks: silky sharks and hammerheads. The researchers also found that these sharks have evolved/mutated over time to thrive underwater on sulfur. The presence of the sharks in the crater raised “new questions about the ecology of active submarine volcanoes and the extreme environments in which large marine animals can exist,” the researchers wrote in a 2016 Oceanography article, “Exploring the ‘Sharkcano’.” The images were shared on Twitter, showing a plume of discoloured water being emitted from the Kavachi Volcano. In 2015, scientists found hammerhead sharks living in the hot, acidic waters of Kavachi Volcano's underwater crater. The 'sharkano', as they called it, is erupting again. https://t.co/l4Exv5GZXy pic.twitter.com/XS7QBHxqCw — NASA Earth (@NASAEarth) May 17, 2022 × However, this is not the first time that such eruptions occurred at Kavachi. It has happened twice, 2014 and 2017. × The volcano erupts nearly continuously, and residents of nearby inhabitated islands often report visible steam and ash. The island is named for a sea god of the Gatokae and Vangunu peoples, and it is sometimes also referred to as Rejo te Kvachi, or “Kavachi’s Oven”. To view inside Kavachi's crater, the scientists deployed a baited drop camera to a depth of 164 feet (50 meters), according to the journal Oceanography. Kavachi formed in a tectonically active area—a subduction zone lies 30 kilometers (18 miles) to the southwest. The volcano produces lavas that range from basaltic, which is rich in magnesium and iron, to andesitic, which contains more silica.

NASA releases satellite pics of ‘Sharkcano’ eruption, where mutant sharks thrive

New Zealand has been viewed as a silent spectator when it comes to matters involving China but the recent signing of a pact seems to have changed that we're talking about the controversial pact signed by China and the Solomon islands which has alarmed the United States and its allies.

Controversy around China and Solomon Islands deal, Shift in New Zealand's tone on China?

New Zealand has long been seen as the moderate, even absent,&nbsp;voice&nbsp;on&nbsp;China&nbsp;in the "Five Eyes" western alliance, so much so that&nbsp;its&nbsp;commitment to the group was questioned just 12 months ago.

The recent signing of a&nbsp;security&nbsp;pact&nbsp;between&nbsp;China&nbsp;and nearby&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;appears to have changed that.

New Zealand's tone on both&nbsp;security&nbsp;and Beijing's growing presence in the South Pacific has toughened, a shift analysts say reflects concerns the agreement will give Beijing a strategic foothold and potentially a military presence in the Pacific that could destabilise Western influence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-solomon-islands-meet-discussions-include-china-deal-476990">Australia-Solomon Islands meet, discussions include China deal</a>

"It's a real challenge to New Zealand's sense of where the Pacific is heading," said Robert Ayson, Professor of Strategic Studies at Victoria University of Wellington.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the&nbsp;pact&nbsp;as "gravely concerning" and called on&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;to discuss it within the Pacific&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;Forum.

"What is really changing around us is the level of assertiveness and aggression we see in the region," Ardern said later at a United States-New Zealand Business Summit.

New Zealand has previously often shied away from such criticisms, which analysts put down to the country's heavy trade reliance and close economic relationship with&nbsp;China.

Both&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;have said the new&nbsp;pact&nbsp;will not undermine peace in the region. Details of the final agreement have not been released but Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said the agreement called for&nbsp;China&nbsp;to help the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;maintain social order and cope with natural disasters, and did not pose a risk to the United States.

Watch |&nbsp;The Pacific power struggle: US officials land in Solomon Island

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Soft power

But statements by Ardern and Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta were a clear signal they shared U.S. and Australian concerns about Chinese&nbsp;security&nbsp;engagement in the Pacific, said Anna Powles from the Centre for Defence and&nbsp;Security&nbsp;Studies at Massey University.

"It also sent a signal to the Pacific that New Zealand supported regional collective&nbsp;security&nbsp;initiatives, and to third parties, specifically&nbsp;China, that regional crises in the Pacific would be managed by the region," she said.

While small and with limited military capabilities, New Zealand's soft power in the Pacific is arguably stronger than&nbsp;its&nbsp;allies. It has a large Pacifika population and strong family, business, sporting and cultural ties along with territories in the region.

New Zealand sees&nbsp;itself as a Pacific country and wants stability and prosperity for&nbsp;its&nbsp;neighbours, and needs a free and open Indo-Pacific to protect trade and telecommunication connections.

David Vaeafe, programme manager at non-governmental organisation Pacific Cooperation Foundation, said the relationship with the Pacific was not all about money but about listening and understanding what the region needs.

"New Zealand's foreign policy towards the Pacific is slowly evolving and engaging from being 'you shouldn't do this' to consulting and being part of that process," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-white-house-official-kurt-campbell-visits-solomon-islands-after-it-signed-security-pact-with-china-472920">Senior White House official Kurt Campbell visits Solomon Islands after it signed security pact with China</a>

Five Eyes Criticisms

A year ago, there were questions over Wellington's commitment to the Five Eyes alliance with Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States, after Mahuta said Wellington was uncomfortable with expanding the role of the group.

There had been criticism after New Zealand opted not to sign joint statements from other Five Eyes members, including one on Hong Kong and another on the origins of COVID-19.

White House Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell&nbsp;told a business summit earlier this month that New Zealand's underestimation of&nbsp;security&nbsp;risks in the past appeared unlikely to be an issue.

"I think there is an understanding that the challenges that are presenting themselves on the global stage are not so distant - they're closer and they have direct implications," he said.

Already New Zealand and Japan have announced plans to increase&nbsp;security&nbsp;ties and other moves are afoot.

Mahuta visited Fiji at the end of March and signed an agreement that among things will facilitate information on shared&nbsp;security&nbsp;challenges.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/security-deal-with-china-wont-affect-peace-says-solomon-islands-prime-minister-472403">Security deal with China won't affect peace, says Solomon Islands prime minister</a>

At the start of the month, a partly New Zealand-backed tuna processing plant for the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;that is set to create more than 5,500 jobs was announced.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has quietly shuffled more money into Pacific development cooperation budget for 2021-2024, according to changes made on&nbsp;its&nbsp;website. The fund has been increased since December by nearly&nbsp;NZ$120 million ($75 million) to $1.55 billion.

New Zealand's budget on Thursday will likely give further detail on Pacific spending with New Zealand's defence minister previously highlighting the region as a priority.

"New Zealand is quite strongly aligned to the United States and Australia," VUW's Ayson said. "That doesn't mean we always see eye-to-eye and it doesn't mean the we're as closely aligned as Australia, but New Zealand's&nbsp;security&nbsp;alliance is quite strong."

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New Zealand has long been seen as the moderate, even absent, voice on China in the "Five Eyes" western alliance, so much so that its commitment to the group was questioned just 12 months ago.

New Zealand has long been seen as the moderate, even absent, voice on China in the "Five Eyes" western alliance, so much so that its commitment to the group was questioned just 12 months ago. The recent signing of a security pact between China and nearby Solomon Islands appears to have changed that. New Zealand's tone on both security and Beijing's growing presence in the South Pacific has toughened, a shift analysts say reflects concerns the agreement will give Beijing a strategic foothold and potentially a military presence in the Pacific that could destabilise Western influence. Also read | Australia-Solomon Islands meet, discussions include China deal "It's a real challenge to New Zealand's sense of where the Pacific is heading," said Robert Ayson, Professor of Strategic Studies at Victoria University of Wellington. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the pact as "gravely concerning" and called on Solomon Islands to discuss it within the Pacific Islands Forum. "What is really changing around us is the level of assertiveness and aggression we see in the region," Ardern said later at a United States-New Zealand Business Summit. New Zealand has previously often shied away from such criticisms, which analysts put down to the country's heavy trade reliance and close economic relationship with China. Both China and the Solomon Islands have said the new pact will not undermine peace in the region. Details of the final agreement have not been released but Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said the agreement called for China to help the Solomon Islands maintain social order and cope with natural disasters, and did not pose a risk to the United States. Watch | The Pacific power struggle: US officials land in Solomon Island Soft power But statements by Ardern and Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta were a clear signal they shared U.S. and Australian concerns about Chinese security engagement in the Pacific, said Anna Powles from the Centre for Defence and Security Studies at Massey University. "It also sent a signal to the Pacific that New Zealand supported regional collective security initiatives, and to third parties, specifically China, that regional crises in the Pacific would be managed by the region," she said. While small and with limited military capabilities, New Zealand's soft power in the Pacific is arguably stronger than its allies. It has a large Pacifika population and strong family, business, sporting and cultural ties along with territories in the region. New Zealand sees itself as a Pacific country and wants stability and prosperity for its neighbours, and needs a free and open Indo-Pacific to protect trade and telecommunication connections. David Vaeafe, programme manager at non-governmental organisation Pacific Cooperation Foundation, said the relationship with the Pacific was not all about money but about listening and understanding what the region needs. "New Zealand's foreign policy towards the Pacific is slowly evolving and engaging from being 'you shouldn't do this' to consulting and being part of that process," he said. Also read | Senior White House official Kurt Campbell visits Solomon Islands after it signed security pact with China Five Eyes Criticisms A year ago, there were questions over Wellington's commitment to the Five Eyes alliance with Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States, after Mahuta said Wellington was uncomfortable with expanding the role of the group. There had been criticism after New Zealand opted not to sign joint statements from other Five Eyes members, including one on Hong Kong and another on the origins of COVID-19. White House Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell told a business summit earlier this month that New Zealand's underestimation of security risks in the past appeared unlikely to be an issue. "I think there is an understanding that the challenges that are presenting themselves on the global stage are not so distant - they're closer and they have direct implications," he said. Already New Zealand and Japan have announced plans to increase security ties and other moves are afoot. Mahuta visited Fiji at the end of March and signed an agreement that among things will facilitate information on shared security challenges. Also read | Security deal with China won't affect peace, says Solomon Islands prime minister At the start of the month, a partly New Zealand-backed tuna processing plant for the Solomon Islands that is set to create more than 5,500 jobs was announced. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has quietly shuffled more money into Pacific development cooperation budget for 2021-2024, according to changes made on its website. The fund has been increased since December by nearly NZ$120 million ($75 million) to $1.55 billion. New Zealand's budget on Thursday will likely give further detail on Pacific spending with New Zealand's defence minister previously highlighting the region as a priority. "New Zealand is quite strongly aligned to the United States and Australia," VUW's Ayson said. "That doesn't mean we always see eye-to-eye and it doesn't mean the we're as closely aligned as Australia, but New Zealand's security alliance is quite strong." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Alarmed by Solomon Islands-China pact, New Zealand finds its voice on security

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday (April 30) said that China has a record of interfering in foreign politics.

According to him, "We are very aware of the influence the Chinese government seeks to have in this country."

&nbsp;"There is form on foreign interference in Australia," news agency Reuters quoted Morrison as saying.

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His statement comes ahead of the May 21 election that will be held in Australia amid&nbsp;rising tensions with China.

Recently, Australia's defence minister Peter Dutton had also accused China of paying bribes to win international deals.

Dutton told news agency AFP, "China's incredibly aggressive acts of foreign interference, the preparedness to pay bribes to beat other countries to deals: that's the reality of modern China."

Defence experts believe that he was referring to Beijing's newly signed defence pact with the Solomon Islands in which China apparently outmanoeuvred Australia by securing the agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-eye-on-china-australia-spends-35-billion-to-purchase-120-tanks-from-us-443994">Also read |&nbsp;With eye on China, Australia spends $3.5 billion to purchase 120 tanks from US</a>

China has requested Australia to "respect the sovereign and independent choices made by China and the Solomons".

The Pacific islands' Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare had been warned about the pact's "potential regional security implications" by the White House.

It said in a statement, "If steps are taken to establish a de facto permanent military presence, power-projection capabilities, or a military installation, the delegation noted that the United States would then have significant concerns and respond accordingly."

Morrison said Australia is worried that China will increase its military presence on the Solomon Islands, which is less than 2,000 km from Canberra, and added "Any suggestion that the Chinese government doesn't seek to interfere in Australia, well, we didn't put that legislation in for no reason."

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(With inputs from agencies)

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday (April 30) said that China has a record of interfering in foreign politics. According to him, "We are very aware of the influence the Chinese government seeks to have in this country.

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday (April 30) said that China has a record of interfering in foreign politics. According to him, "We are very aware of the influence the Chinese government seeks to have in this country." "There is form on foreign interference in Australia," news agency Reuters quoted Morrison as saying. His statement comes ahead of the May 21 election that will be held in Australia amid rising tensions with China. Recently, Australia's defence minister Peter Dutton had also accused China of paying bribes to win international deals. Dutton told news agency AFP, "China's incredibly aggressive acts of foreign interference, the preparedness to pay bribes to beat other countries to deals: that's the reality of modern China." Defence experts believe that he was referring to Beijing's newly signed defence pact with the Solomon Islands in which China apparently outmanoeuvred Australia by securing the agreement. Also read | With eye on China, Australia spends $3.5 billion to purchase 120 tanks from US China has requested Australia to "respect the sovereign and independent choices made by China and the Solomons". The Pacific islands' Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare had been warned about the pact's "potential regional security implications" by the White House. It said in a statement, "If steps are taken to establish a de facto permanent military presence, power-projection capabilities, or a military installation, the delegation noted that the United States would then have significant concerns and respond accordingly." Morrison said Australia is worried that China will increase its military presence on the Solomon Islands, which is less than 2,000 km from Canberra, and added "Any suggestion that the Chinese government doesn't seek to interfere in Australia, well, we didn't put that legislation in for no reason." WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

China has a record of interfering in foreign politics, says Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison

Amid the ongoing tensions due to China making its mark in the Pacific, the US is all set to unveil a 'counter China strategy'. It also plans to open an embassy in the Solomon Islands.

The US to unveil 'counter China strategy' as it plans to open an embassy in the Solomon Islands

U.S. has not ruled out military action in Solomon Islands if China builds a military base in the archipelago. Australia's Defence Minister has said that the country should prepare for war. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: U.S. does not rule out military action in Solomon Islands

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Russia-Ukraine war | China's security pact with Solomon Islands

A senior US delegation has arrived in the Solomon Islands today. The United States intends to express its concern over China's intentions in the pacific islands.

The Pacific power struggle: US officials land in Solomon Island

Kurt Campbell, a senior White House official, on Friday (April 22) arrived in the Solomon Islands for a visit.

The former US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs is expected to express concerns about a pact between the Pacific island and China.

Campbell said his delegation will also discuss "plans to open a US embassy in Honiara".

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After the signing of the pact, Chinese ambassador Li Ming said "On behalf of the Chinese government and people of China, we congratulate the government of the Solomon Islands."

Earlier, the US Embassy in Papua New Guinea had issued a statement, “We do not believe importing security forces from the People’s Republic of China and their methods will help the Solomon Islands.”

“Instead, doing so will fuel local, regional, and international tensions and increase concerns over Beijing’s expansion of its internal security apparatus to the Pacific.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/security-deal-with-china-wont-affect-peace-says-solomon-islands-prime-minister-472403">Also read |&nbsp;Security deal with China won't affect peace, says Solomon Islands prime minister</a>

In response, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said, “Let me assure the people of Solomon Islands that we entered into an arrangement with China with our eyes wide open, guided by our national interests.”

According to a draft of the pact, China will increase its forces in the Solomon Islands “to assist in maintaining social order.”

But Sogavare has denied the accusation made by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison that Beijing is exerting ''enormous pressure'' on the Solomon Islands.

Zhao Lijian, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, said Australia was using ''coercive diplomacy'' in the region.

In 2019, the Solomon Islands switched diplomatic ties from Taiwan to Beijing, allowing Chinese naval vessels to replenish in Honiara.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kurt Campbell, a senior White House official, on Friday (April 22) arrived in the Solomon Islands for a visit. The former US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs is expected to express concerns about a pact between the Pacific island and China.

Kurt Campbell, a senior White House official, on Friday (April 22) arrived in the Solomon Islands for a visit. The former US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs is expected to express concerns about a pact between the Pacific island and China. Campbell said his delegation will also discuss "plans to open a US embassy in Honiara". After the signing of the pact, Chinese ambassador Li Ming said "On behalf of the Chinese government and people of China, we congratulate the government of the Solomon Islands." Earlier, the US Embassy in Papua New Guinea had issued a statement, “We do not believe importing security forces from the People’s Republic of China and their methods will help the Solomon Islands.” “Instead, doing so will fuel local, regional, and international tensions and increase concerns over Beijing’s expansion of its internal security apparatus to the Pacific.” Also read | Security deal with China won't affect peace, says Solomon Islands prime minister In response, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said, “Let me assure the people of Solomon Islands that we entered into an arrangement with China with our eyes wide open, guided by our national interests.” According to a draft of the pact, China will increase its forces in the Solomon Islands “to assist in maintaining social order.” But Sogavare has denied the accusation made by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison that Beijing is exerting ''enormous pressure'' on the Solomon Islands. Zhao Lijian, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, said Australia was using ''coercive diplomacy'' in the region. In 2019, the Solomon Islands switched diplomatic ties from Taiwan to Beijing, allowing Chinese naval vessels to replenish in Honiara. (With inputs from agencies)

Senior White House official Kurt Campbell visits Solomon Islands after it signed security pact with China

China has locked a security pact with the Solomon Islands. Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison is being accused of complacency. Molly Gambhir tells you why Morrison is facing heat.

Gravitas: China in the Solomons: A result of Australia's blunder?

White House said on Tuesday (April 19) that it is concerned about lack of transparency surrounding China's reported security agreement with the Solomon Islands. White House has called it to be part of pattern of Beijing offering 'shadowy' deals to smaller countries.

Earlier, China said that it had signed a security deal with Solomon Islands. This has drawn attention of US allies Australia and New Zealand. There are concerns about growing Chinese influence in a region traditionally under their sway.

A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said in a statement that US&nbsp;officials would raise the issue with the Solomon Islands on a planned visit to the Pacific Island country this week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-and-solomon-islands-ink-controversial-security-pact-472142">China and Solomon Islands ink controversial security pact</a>

"We are concerned by the lack of transparency and unspecified nature of this agreement, which follows a pattern of China offering shadowy, vague deals with little regional consultation in fishing, resource management, development assistance and now security practices," the official said.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters on Tuesday: "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently."

The spokesperson did not specify when or where the signing took place.

A draft version of the agreement leaked last month rattled Western governments, with provisions allowing for Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation.

According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the Solomon Islands' request to maintain "social order".

White House said on Tuesday (April 19) that it is concerned about lack of transparency surrounding China's reported security agreement with the Solomon Islands. White House has called it to be part of pattern of Beijing offering 'shadowy' deals to smaller countries.

White House said on Tuesday (April 19) that it is concerned about lack of transparency surrounding China's reported security agreement with the Solomon Islands. White House has called it to be part of pattern of Beijing offering 'shadowy' deals to smaller countries. Earlier, China said that it had signed a security deal with Solomon Islands. This has drawn attention of US allies Australia and New Zealand. There are concerns about growing Chinese influence in a region traditionally under their sway. A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said in a statement that US officials would raise the issue with the Solomon Islands on a planned visit to the Pacific Island country this week. Also Read | China and Solomon Islands ink controversial security pact "We are concerned by the lack of transparency and unspecified nature of this agreement, which follows a pattern of China offering shadowy, vague deals with little regional consultation in fishing, resource management, development assistance and now security practices," the official said. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters on Tuesday: "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently." The spokesperson did not specify when or where the signing took place. A draft version of the agreement leaked last month rattled Western governments, with provisions allowing for Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation. According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the Solomon Islands' request to maintain "social order".

US concerned about 'lack of transparency' in Chinese pact with Solomon Islands 

China said today that it has signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands. The US is mounting a diplomatic response. Molly Gambhir tells you why America is concerned.

Gravitas: China-Solomon Islands pact signed

Prime Minister of Pacific island nation Solomon Islands told the country's parliament on Wednesday that security pact with China will not undermine peace

"I ask all our neighbours, friends and partners to respect the sovereign interests of the Solomon Islands on the assurance that the decision will not adversely impact or undermine the peace and harmony of our region," Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare told parliament.

The security pact between China and Solomon Islands has alerted the West and also made Australia and New Zealand take note. Both the nations see the Solomon Islands as being within a region in their 'backyard'.

Australia is part of the Quad grouping with the US, India and Japan. The Quad is largely seen as an effort to contain Chinese influence.

The Solomon Islands have received many calls from the West and its neighbours urging the island nation not to go ahead with the pact. Australia is worried that the security pact may lead to Chinese military presence less than 2000 km away from the country.

Sogavare confirmed that the pact had been sealed by foreign ministers from the two countries, a day after China announced the unexpectedly hasty signing.

The confirmation comes days before a White House delegation led by Indo-Pacific Coordinator Kurt Campbell is due to arrive in the capital, Honiara.

On Wednesday, Campbell met Fiji`s prime minister, Frank Bainimarama, in Suva to discuss regional security, the US embassy said. He will also travel to Papua New Guinea.

The United States, Japan, New Zealand and Australia shared concerns about the security pact with China "and its serious risks to a free and open Indo-Pacific", the White House said earlier.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister of Pacific island nation Solomon Islands told the country's parliament on Wednesday that security pact with China will not undermine peace "I ask all our neighbours, friends and partners to respect the sovereign interests of the Solomon Islands on the assurance that the decision will not adversely impact or undermine the peace and harmony of our region," Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare told parliament.

Prime Minister of Pacific island nation Solomon Islands told the country's parliament on Wednesday that security pact with China will not undermine peace "I ask all our neighbours, friends and partners to respect the sovereign interests of the Solomon Islands on the assurance that the decision will not adversely impact or undermine the peace and harmony of our region," Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare told parliament. The security pact between China and Solomon Islands has alerted the West and also made Australia and New Zealand take note. Both the nations see the Solomon Islands as being within a region in their 'backyard'. Australia is part of the Quad grouping with the US, India and Japan. The Quad is largely seen as an effort to contain Chinese influence. The Solomon Islands have received many calls from the West and its neighbours urging the island nation not to go ahead with the pact. Australia is worried that the security pact may lead to Chinese military presence less than 2000 km away from the country. Sogavare confirmed that the pact had been sealed by foreign ministers from the two countries, a day after China announced the unexpectedly hasty signing. The confirmation comes days before a White House delegation led by Indo-Pacific Coordinator Kurt Campbell is due to arrive in the capital, Honiara. On Wednesday, Campbell met Fiji`s prime minister, Frank Bainimarama, in Suva to discuss regional security, the US embassy said. He will also travel to Papua New Guinea. The United States, Japan, New Zealand and Australia shared concerns about the security pact with China "and its serious risks to a free and open Indo-Pacific", the White House said earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

Security deal with China won't affect peace, says Solomon Islands prime minister

China and the Solomon Islands have signed a wide-ranging security pact that will allow the Chinese naval to have its presence in the South Pacific—a move that is being viewed with caution by US, Australia and New Zealand.

While briefing the reporters in Beijing on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently."

He did not elaborate further on when or where the deal was signed.

According to a draft version of the agreement that was leaked last month, China will be allowed to station their naval and security troops in the Pacific, less than 2,000km off Australia’s coast.

The leaked document says the Solomon Islands, which lies east of Papua New Guinea, could “request China to send police, armed and military personnel and other law enforcement agencies” to the country.

It could also send warships to the islands for stopovers and to replenish supplies, leading to speculation about the possibility of China establishing a naval base on the islands.

The sudden announcement comes a day after the US announced that it would be sending two top officials to the archipelago.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-solomon-islands-finalising-pact-to-establish-military-presence-at-australias-backyard-report-465232">&nbsp;China, Solomon Islands finalising pact to establish military presence at ‘Australia’s backyard’: Report</a>

US State Department spokesman Ned Price said the agreement could destabilise the Solomon Islands and would set a concerning precedent for the wider Pacific region.

"Despite the Solomon Islands government's comments, the broad nature of the security agreement leaves open the door for the deployment of PRC (People's Republic of China) military forces to the Solomon Islands," Price said.

The signing of the pact comes in the wake of protests that broke out in 2021 after Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan and switch sides with China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-riots-whats-behind-the-protests-431839">Solomon islands riots: What’s behind the protests?</a>

More than 200 peacekeepers were deployed from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand&nbsp;to restore calm.

China donated anti-riot gear and offered to send police advisors to help quell the riots.

(With inputs from agencies)

China and the Solomon Islands have signed a wide-ranging security pact that will allow the Chinese naval to have its presence in the South Pacific—a move that is being viewed with caution by US, Australia and New Zealand.

China and the Solomon Islands have signed a wide-ranging security pact that will allow the Chinese naval to have its presence in the South Pacific—a move that is being viewed with caution by US, Australia and New Zealand. While briefing the reporters in Beijing on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently." He did not elaborate further on when or where the deal was signed. According to a draft version of the agreement that was leaked last month, China will be allowed to station their naval and security troops in the Pacific, less than 2,000km off Australia’s coast. The leaked document says the Solomon Islands, which lies east of Papua New Guinea, could “request China to send police, armed and military personnel and other law enforcement agencies” to the country. It could also send warships to the islands for stopovers and to replenish supplies, leading to speculation about the possibility of China establishing a naval base on the islands. The sudden announcement comes a day after the US announced that it would be sending two top officials to the archipelago. Also read | China, Solomon Islands finalising pact to establish military presence at ‘Australia’s backyard’: Report US State Department spokesman Ned Price said the agreement could destabilise the Solomon Islands and would set a concerning precedent for the wider Pacific region. "Despite the Solomon Islands government's comments, the broad nature of the security agreement leaves open the door for the deployment of PRC (People's Republic of China) military forces to the Solomon Islands," Price said. The signing of the pact comes in the wake of protests that broke out in 2021 after Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan and switch sides with China. Also read | Solomon islands riots: What’s behind the protests? More than 200 peacekeepers were deployed from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand to restore calm. China donated anti-riot gear and offered to send police advisors to help quell the riots. (With inputs from agencies)

China and Solomon Islands ink controversial security pact

China&nbsp;on Tuesday confirmed it has sealed a wide-ranging&nbsp;security&nbsp;pact&nbsp;with the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands, an agreement Western governments fear could give Beijing a military foothold in the South Pacific.

"The foreign ministers of&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;officially&nbsp;signed&nbsp;the framework agreement on&nbsp;security&nbsp;cooperation recently," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular press briefing.

A draft version of the agreement, leaked last month, sent shockwaves across the region over provisions allowing Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-minister-marise-payne-says-australia-will-continue-defence-cooperation-with-solomon-islands-471646">Australia will continue defence cooperation with Solomon Islands despite China pact: Marise Payne</a>

According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands' request to maintain "social order".

Solomons Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare's assurances that he does not intend to allow&nbsp;China&nbsp;to build a military base there has done little to alleviate concerns in Washington.

"The broad nature of the&nbsp;security&nbsp;agreement leaves open the door for the deployment of PRC military forces to the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said Monday.

The signing of the&nbsp;pact&nbsp;"could increase destabilisation within the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;and will set a concerning precedent for the wider Pacific Island region", he added.

The White House is sending a high-level delegation to the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;this week to discuss its concerns as well as the reopening of the US embassy in the former British protectorate's capital, Honiara.

Earlier this month, Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja travelled to Honiara to ask the prime minister in person not to ink the deal.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Chinese companies acquiring Islands for PLA?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-companies-acquiring-islands-for-pla-470833/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang on Tuesday accused Western powers of "deliberately exaggerating tensions" over the&nbsp;pact.

Security&nbsp;cooperation between&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;is "normal exchange and cooperation between two sovereign and independent countries," he said.

The United States and its Asian allies have voiced growing concern about&nbsp;China's assertiveness in the Pacific, where it is locked in several territorial disputes with neighbouring countries.

The&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands, a World War II battlefront, recognised&nbsp;China&nbsp;only in 2019 after switching from ties with Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that Beijing claims.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-companies-eyeing-strategic-pieces-of-land-worldwide-report-470671">Chinese companies buying up 'strategic' pieces of land worldwide: Report</a>

The island nation of 800,000 has been wracked by political and social unrest, and many of its people live in poverty.

In November, protesters tried to storm the parliament and went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Honiara's Chinatown.

The unrest was sparked by opposition to Sogavare's rule and fuelled by unemployment, while anti-China&nbsp;sentiment also played a role.

China on Tuesday confirmed it has sealed a wide-ranging security pact with the Solomon Islands, an agreement Western governments fear could give Beijing a military foothold in the South Pacific.

China on Tuesday confirmed it has sealed a wide-ranging security pact with the Solomon Islands, an agreement Western governments fear could give Beijing a military foothold in the South Pacific. "The foreign ministers of China and the Solomon Islands officially signed the framework agreement on security cooperation recently," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular press briefing. A draft version of the agreement, leaked last month, sent shockwaves across the region over provisions allowing Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation. Also read | Australia will continue defence cooperation with Solomon Islands despite China pact: Marise Payne According to the draft, armed Chinese police could be deployed at the Solomon Islands' request to maintain "social order". Solomons Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare's assurances that he does not intend to allow China to build a military base there has done little to alleviate concerns in Washington. "The broad nature of the security agreement leaves open the door for the deployment of PRC military forces to the Solomon Islands," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said Monday. The signing of the pact "could increase destabilisation within the Solomon Islands and will set a concerning precedent for the wider Pacific Island region", he added. The White House is sending a high-level delegation to the Solomon Islands this week to discuss its concerns as well as the reopening of the US embassy in the former British protectorate's capital, Honiara. Earlier this month, Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja travelled to Honiara to ask the prime minister in person not to ink the deal. Watch | Gravitas: Chinese companies acquiring Islands for PLA? Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang on Tuesday accused Western powers of "deliberately exaggerating tensions" over the pact. Security cooperation between China and the Solomon Islands is "normal exchange and cooperation between two sovereign and independent countries," he said. The United States and its Asian allies have voiced growing concern about China's assertiveness in the Pacific, where it is locked in several territorial disputes with neighbouring countries. The Solomon Islands, a World War II battlefront, recognised China only in 2019 after switching from ties with Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that Beijing claims. Also read | Chinese companies buying up 'strategic' pieces of land worldwide: Report The island nation of 800,000 has been wracked by political and social unrest, and many of its people live in poverty. In November, protesters tried to storm the parliament and went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Honiara's Chinatown. The unrest was sparked by opposition to Sogavare's rule and fuelled by unemployment, while anti-China sentiment also played a role.

China says it has signed security pact with Solomon Islands

Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne on Sunday (April 17) said that her country will continue defence cooperation with the Solomon Islands.

Her statement comes as the Pacific nation is mulling signing a security pact with China.&nbsp;The Solomon Islands are only 2,000 km (1,200 miles) from Australia.

Canberra has opposed the proposed security agreement with China saying it can undermine regional stability. It is concerned that China will increase its military presence in the Solomon Islands.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-solomon-islands-under-pressure-from-beijing-466792/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chinese police and military officers will protect companies and infrastructure as per a leaked draft of the Solomon Islands-China deal.

Reaffirming her faith in the Solomons security treaty, Payne explained how it helped the Solomon Islands during the unrest triggered by demonstrations against Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

Along with Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea are members of the treaty under which ''assistance force made up of Pacific family countries'' is provided to its members.

When asked if Australia's allies agree with her point&nbsp;of view, Payne said "Yes, that is absolutely my view and it is the view of Pacific partners".

"But there is also a concern that there has been a lack of transparency in relation to this agreement," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsettling-influences-australia-reacts-sharply-to-chinese-military-moves-in-solomon-islands-465323">Also read |&nbsp;Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands</a>

China's deepening security ties with the Solomon Islands has sparked concerns over its growing influence in the region.

Australia has sent Pacific Minister Zed Seselja to Honiara for an unusual mid-election campaign meeting.

It hopes Seselja will convince Sogavare "to consider not signing the agreement" with China.

"With a view that a strong and stable Solomon Islands is healthy for the security of the region," Sogavare will send his foreign ministers to other countries in the region.

In response, Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said "Australia should respect China and the Solomon Islands’ sovereignty and their own choices with an objective and rational attitude and not instigate a confrontation."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne on Sunday (April 17) said that her country will continue defence cooperation with the Solomon Islands. Her statement comes as the Pacific nation is mulling signing a security pact with China.

Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne on Sunday (April 17) said that her country will continue defence cooperation with the Solomon Islands. Her statement comes as the Pacific nation is mulling signing a security pact with China. The Solomon Islands are only 2,000 km (1,200 miles) from Australia. Canberra has opposed the proposed security agreement with China saying it can undermine regional stability. It is concerned that China will increase its military presence in the Solomon Islands. Chinese police and military officers will protect companies and infrastructure as per a leaked draft of the Solomon Islands-China deal. Reaffirming her faith in the Solomons security treaty, Payne explained how it helped the Solomon Islands during the unrest triggered by demonstrations against Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare. Along with Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea are members of the treaty under which ''assistance force made up of Pacific family countries'' is provided to its members. When asked if Australia's allies agree with her point of view, Payne said "Yes, that is absolutely my view and it is the view of Pacific partners". "But there is also a concern that there has been a lack of transparency in relation to this agreement," she added. Also read | Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands China's deepening security ties with the Solomon Islands has sparked concerns over its growing influence in the region. Australia has sent Pacific Minister Zed Seselja to Honiara for an unusual mid-election campaign meeting. It hopes Seselja will convince Sogavare "to consider not signing the agreement" with China. "With a view that a strong and stable Solomon Islands is healthy for the security of the region," Sogavare will send his foreign ministers to other countries in the region. In response, Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said "Australia should respect China and the Solomon Islands’ sovereignty and their own choices with an objective and rational attitude and not instigate a confrontation." (With inputs from agencies)

Australia will continue defence cooperation with Solomon Islands despite China pact: Marise Payne

Reports have claimed that Chinese companies are looking to buy up&nbsp; "strategic" pieces of land around the world close to US military installations including around key sea lanes and straits.

A report in the Financial Times of London said that some of these companies may be linked to the Chinese government, while others appeared "genuine examples of private sector entrepreneurship".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-concern-over-china-solomon-islands-deal-australian-prime-minister-465614">Also Read|&nbsp;'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison</a>

The report cited the case of Solomon Islands where Chinese companies had gained a foothold even before the country switched recognition from Taiwan to Beijing in 2019 with "similar patterns" witnessed in Central America and the Caribbean.

The report said Chinese investors in the Philippines in collaboration with a mainland real estate company sought to build a "smart city" in Fuga island along the strategically important Luzon Strait close to Taiwan.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A Chinese bailout for Sri Lanka?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-chinese-bailout-for-sri-lanka-469229/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the move prompted an investigation as the Philippines government made plans to build its own naval base in the island.

The report claimed little known Chinese companies with small shareholders were being roped in for the initiative with some having close links to China's security forces and government agencies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-plans-solomon-islands-embassy-in-push-to-counter-china-452601">Also Read: &nbsp;Washington plans Solomon Islands embassy in push to counter China</a>

The Financial Times report claimed some ethnic Chinese living abroad were also being "pulled" into Beijing's plans.

A report in Japanese media had claimed earlier that China may be eyeing food and natural resources in emerging and developing countries.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Reports have claimed that Chinese companies are looking to buy up "strategic" pieces of land around the world close to US military installations including around key sea lanes and straits.

Reports have claimed that Chinese companies are looking to buy up "strategic" pieces of land around the world close to US military installations including around key sea lanes and straits. A report in the Financial Times of London said that some of these companies may be linked to the Chinese government, while others appeared "genuine examples of private sector entrepreneurship". Also Read| 'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison The report cited the case of Solomon Islands where Chinese companies had gained a foothold even before the country switched recognition from Taiwan to Beijing in 2019 with "similar patterns" witnessed in Central America and the Caribbean. The report said Chinese investors in the Philippines in collaboration with a mainland real estate company sought to build a "smart city" in Fuga island along the strategically important Luzon Strait close to Taiwan. Watch | Gravitas: A Chinese bailout for Sri Lanka? However, the move prompted an investigation as the Philippines government made plans to build its own naval base in the island. The report claimed little known Chinese companies with small shareholders were being roped in for the initiative with some having close links to China's security forces and government agencies. Also Read: Washington plans Solomon Islands embassy in push to counter China The Financial Times report claimed some ethnic Chinese living abroad were also being "pulled" into Beijing's plans. A report in Japanese media had claimed earlier that China may be eyeing food and natural resources in emerging and developing countries. (With inputs from Agencies)

Chinese companies buying up 'strategic' pieces of land worldwide: Report

Leaked documents have revealed the Chinese embassy in the Solomon Islands has requested for a heavily armed security team to be sent to the islands after riots broke out in Honiara.

The embassy said in a statement, "The government of the Peoples Republic of China has decided to send a plain-clothes security team, 10 personnel, with necessary light weapons and equipment to the Chinese embassy in the Solomon Islands."&nbsp;

The "official status" of the security team was "diplomatic attaches" that would "enhance the safety and security of the Chinese embassy," as per a leaked memo obtained by the Guardian.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-solomon-islands-under-pressure-from-beijing-466792/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Solomon Islands diplomat Colin Beck wrote a memo saying the request made by the Chinese embassy "stemmed from the recent three days of November riots, of which the Solomon Islands Chinese community faced the brunt of the looting and violence amongst other business owners".&nbsp;

"My ministry, during the period, could not guarantee the safety of the embassy and [its] staff. As host country, we had an obligation to protect all embassies including [the] Chinese embassy," the memo said. "In this regard, we have no objection to the request."&nbsp;

Confirming the veracity of the documents, the Solomon Islands government said, “to be alert against fake news or misinterpreted commentaries on social media forums following leaked documents containing official correspondences between the Solomon Islands Government and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Embassy in Honiara.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-riots-whats-behind-the-protests-431839">Also read |&nbsp;Solomon islands riots: What’s behind the protests?</a>

After a regional backlash, the Solomon Islands said it would not allow a Chinese military base in the Pacific islands nation despite its plans to sign a security pact with Beijing.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said, "Government is conscious of the security ramification of hosting a military base, and it will not be careless to allow such initiative to take place under its watch."&nbsp;

"The point of the security cooperation between China and the Solomon Islands is to maintain the safety of people's lives and property. It is without any military elements or overtones,” said China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Zhao Lijian.

Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja said his country “stood strongly as a partner and a friend of Solomon Islands” and it believed “the Pacific family will continue to meet the security needs of our region.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Leaked documents have revealed the Chinese embassy in the Solomon Islands has requested for a heavily armed security team to be sent to the islands after riots broke out in Honiara.

Leaked documents have revealed the Chinese embassy in the Solomon Islands has requested for a heavily armed security team to be sent to the islands after riots broke out in Honiara. The embassy said in a statement, "The government of the Peoples Republic of China has decided to send a plain-clothes security team, 10 personnel, with necessary light weapons and equipment to the Chinese embassy in the Solomon Islands." The "official status" of the security team was "diplomatic attaches" that would "enhance the safety and security of the Chinese embassy," as per a leaked memo obtained by the Guardian. Solomon Islands diplomat Colin Beck wrote a memo saying the request made by the Chinese embassy "stemmed from the recent three days of November riots, of which the Solomon Islands Chinese community faced the brunt of the looting and violence amongst other business owners". "My ministry, during the period, could not guarantee the safety of the embassy and [its] staff. As host country, we had an obligation to protect all embassies including [the] Chinese embassy," the memo said. "In this regard, we have no objection to the request." Confirming the veracity of the documents, the Solomon Islands government said, “to be alert against fake news or misinterpreted commentaries on social media forums following leaked documents containing official correspondences between the Solomon Islands Government and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Embassy in Honiara.” Also read | Solomon islands riots: What’s behind the protests? After a regional backlash, the Solomon Islands said it would not allow a Chinese military base in the Pacific islands nation despite its plans to sign a security pact with Beijing. Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said, "Government is conscious of the security ramification of hosting a military base, and it will not be careless to allow such initiative to take place under its watch." "The point of the security cooperation between China and the Solomon Islands is to maintain the safety of people's lives and property. It is without any military elements or overtones,” said China’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Zhao Lijian. Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja said his country “stood strongly as a partner and a friend of Solomon Islands” and it believed “the Pacific family will continue to meet the security needs of our region.” (With inputs from agencies)

Leaked documents reveal China had asked for heavily armed security team to be sent to Solomon islands

Despite intentions to sign a security treaty with Beijing, the Solomon Archipelago stated it would not allow a Chinese military installation in the Pacific islands nation, sparking a regional backlash.

The office of Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare stated on Friday that the deal did not encourage China to create a military facility, a day after officials from the two countries initialled a draft agreement on security.&nbsp;

"Government is conscious of the security ramification of hosting a military base, and it will not be careless to allow such initiative to take place under its watch," a statement said.

Sogavare has not revealed the contents of the security pact with China, which has aroused worry after a leaked draught permitted Chinese navy ships to refuel at the islands.

It has yet to be signed by ministers.

The head of the Federated States of Micronesia encouraged the Solomon Islands not to sign the security treaty on Thursday, citing "severe security concerns" and a worry that the Pacific will become embroiled in a conflict between China and the US.

Watch | Gravitas: China gets another military base in Tajikistan

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New Zealand has also expressed its opposition to the treaty, claiming that it will jeopardise long-standing regional security cooperation.

On Friday, Australia's Defence Minister, Peter Dutton, said he appreciated Sogavare's viewpoint but advised prudence.&nbsp;

Despite promising the US that it would not militarise the region, China had constructed 20 points of military presence in the South China Sea, and Canberra feared Beijing was following a similar route in the Pacific islands, Dutton said in an interview with Sky News.

Watch | Gravitas: Solomon Islands: Under pressure from Beijing?

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"They want a military port in PNG [Papua New Guinea]. They`ve got one in Sri Lanka, and they`re looking obviously at other places where they can put them," he said. 
 
A Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would prompt Australia to significantly increase its military deployment to the region because it the islands are very close to Australia, he said. 
 
"The Chinese are incredibly aggressive. The tactics that they`re deploying into small island nations is quite remarkable," he added. 
 
"The China-Solomon Islands security cooperation does not target any third party and does not conflict with other nations," China's foreign ministry said on Thursday, adding that the pact covered social order, defending lives and property, and natural disaster relief.

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite intentions to sign a security treaty with Beijing, the Solomon Archipelago stated it would not allow a Chinese military installation in the Pacific islands nation, sparking a regional backlash.

Despite intentions to sign a security treaty with Beijing, the Solomon Archipelago stated it would not allow a Chinese military installation in the Pacific islands nation, sparking a regional backlash. The office of Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare stated on Friday that the deal did not encourage China to create a military facility, a day after officials from the two countries initialled a draft agreement on security. "Government is conscious of the security ramification of hosting a military base, and it will not be careless to allow such initiative to take place under its watch," a statement said. Sogavare has not revealed the contents of the security pact with China, which has aroused worry after a leaked draught permitted Chinese navy ships to refuel at the islands. It has yet to be signed by ministers. The head of the Federated States of Micronesia encouraged the Solomon Islands not to sign the security treaty on Thursday, citing "severe security concerns" and a worry that the Pacific will become embroiled in a conflict between China and the US. Watch | Gravitas: China gets another military base in Tajikistan New Zealand has also expressed its opposition to the treaty, claiming that it will jeopardise long-standing regional security cooperation. On Friday, Australia's Defence Minister, Peter Dutton, said he appreciated Sogavare's viewpoint but advised prudence. Despite promising the US that it would not militarise the region, China had constructed 20 points of military presence in the South China Sea, and Canberra feared Beijing was following a similar route in the Pacific islands, Dutton said in an interview with Sky News. Watch | Gravitas: Solomon Islands: Under pressure from Beijing? "They want a military port in PNG [Papua New Guinea]. They`ve got one in Sri Lanka, and they`re looking obviously at other places where they can put them," he said. A Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would prompt Australia to significantly increase its military deployment to the region because it the islands are very close to Australia, he said. "The Chinese are incredibly aggressive. The tactics that they`re deploying into small island nations is quite remarkable," he added. "The China-Solomon Islands security cooperation does not target any third party and does not conflict with other nations," China's foreign ministry said on Thursday, adding that the pact covered social order, defending lives and property, and natural disaster relief. (With inputs from agencies)

Won't allow Chinese military base, we know 'ramification': Solomon Islands

The&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands' prime minister Tuesday rebuked Australian fears a draft&nbsp;security&nbsp;pact between his country and&nbsp;China&nbsp;that leaked online last week would "destabilise" the South Pacific.

In an impassioned speech, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said he found it "very&nbsp;insulting... to be branded as unfit to manage our sovereign affairs or have other motives in pursuing our national interest".

The proposals in the leaked draft agreement would allow Chinese&nbsp;security&nbsp;and naval deployments to the Pacific island nation, a development that sent shockwaves through Canberra last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealands-prime-minister-ardern-says-solomon-islands-china-deal-gravely-concerning-466244">New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;says Solomon Islands-China deal 'gravely concerning'</a>

Sogavare said the pact was yet to be signed but confirmed that his government and counterparts in Beijing had reached agreement on the shape of the&nbsp;deal, although he offered no details.

While existing&nbsp;security&nbsp;arrangements with Australia would "remain intact", Sogavare said that "to achieve our&nbsp;security&nbsp;needs, it is clear that we need to diversify the country's relationship with other countries -- and what is wrong with that?"

The prospect of a Chinese naval base in the South Pacific has long been a concern for Australia and the United States because it would allow Beijing to project power deep into the region.

"We would be concerned by any actions that destabilise the&nbsp;security&nbsp;of our region," Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement last week.

But Sogavare labelled concern from "many leaders" about&nbsp;China's presence threatening regional&nbsp;security&nbsp;in the Pacific as "unfortunate perceptions".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-concern-over-china-solomon-islands-deal-australian-prime-minister-465614">'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison</a>

The&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;were rocked by unrest last November when protesters tried to storm the parliament and then went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Chinatown in the capital of Honiara.

More than 200 peacekeepers from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand were deployed to restore calm and Sogavare managed to avoid being deposed.&nbsp;

The riots were sparked by a range of tensions, including opposition to Sogavare's rule, inter-island rivalries and high unemployment, but anti-China&nbsp;sentiment also played a key role.

Leaders on the most populous island of Malaita fiercely oppose Sogavare's decision to shift diplomatic ties from Taiwan to Beijing in 2019, a switch that became a lightning rod for broader frustration about Chinese investment in the Pacific island nation.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A Chinese military base in the pacific?

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The Solomon Islands' prime minister Tuesday rebuked Australian fears a draft security pact between his country and China that leaked online last week would "destabilise" the South Pacific.

The Solomon Islands' prime minister Tuesday rebuked Australian fears a draft security pact between his country and China that leaked online last week would "destabilise" the South Pacific. In an impassioned speech, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said he found it "very insulting... to be branded as unfit to manage our sovereign affairs or have other motives in pursuing our national interest". The proposals in the leaked draft agreement would allow Chinese security and naval deployments to the Pacific island nation, a development that sent shockwaves through Canberra last week. Also read | New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says Solomon Islands-China deal 'gravely concerning' Sogavare said the pact was yet to be signed but confirmed that his government and counterparts in Beijing had reached agreement on the shape of the deal, although he offered no details. While existing security arrangements with Australia would "remain intact", Sogavare said that "to achieve our security needs, it is clear that we need to diversify the country's relationship with other countries -- and what is wrong with that?" The prospect of a Chinese naval base in the South Pacific has long been a concern for Australia and the United States because it would allow Beijing to project power deep into the region. "We would be concerned by any actions that destabilise the security of our region," Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement last week. But Sogavare labelled concern from "many leaders" about China's presence threatening regional security in the Pacific as "unfortunate perceptions". Also read | 'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison The Solomon Islands were rocked by unrest last November when protesters tried to storm the parliament and then went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Chinatown in the capital of Honiara. More than 200 peacekeepers from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand were deployed to restore calm and Sogavare managed to avoid being deposed. The riots were sparked by a range of tensions, including opposition to Sogavare's rule, inter-island rivalries and high unemployment, but anti-China sentiment also played a key role. Leaders on the most populous island of Malaita fiercely oppose Sogavare's decision to shift diplomatic ties from Taiwan to Beijing in 2019, a switch that became a lightning rod for broader frustration about Chinese investment in the Pacific island nation. Watch | Gravitas: A Chinese military base in the pacific?

Solomon Islands' PM calls China security deal backlash 'insulting'

A draft security treaty between China and Solomon Islands has leaked. It could pave the way for a Chinese military base in the Solomons. Australia & New Zealand are raising an alarm.

Soloman Island's PM defends Beijing security pact amid concerns raised by Australia, New Zealand

New&nbsp;Zealand is gravely concerned about the possible militarization of the Pacific following a decision by the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;government to form a security partnership with&nbsp;China, Prime Minister Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;said on Monday.

Confirmation on Friday by the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;government that it was "diversifying" its security relationships beyond Australia has prompted alarm in Australia,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand and the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-concern-over-china-solomon-islands-deal-australian-prime-minister-465614">'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison</a>

"We see such acts as a potential militarization of the region and also see very little reason in terms of the Pacific security for such a need and such a presence,"&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;told Radio NZ when asked if it would be acceptable for&nbsp;China&nbsp;to station its military vessels in the Pacific country.

"We do see this as gravely concerning."

Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;opposition leader Matthew Wale said in an interview with ABC television he was disappointed Australia had not acted to stop a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with&nbsp;China, after he warned Australia's high commissioner, or ambassador, last year.

High Commissioner Lachlan Strahan responded on Monday, writing on Twitter: "Australia has raised its concerns with (the&nbsp;Solomons) about the proposed&nbsp;Solomons-China&nbsp;security cooperation agreement regularly and respectfully".

The "Pacific family" was best placed to provide security assistance to the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands, he added, with Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne quickly "liking" the tweet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-solomon-islands-finalising-pact-to-establish-military-presence-at-australias-backyard-report-465232">China, Solomon Islands finalising pact to establish military presence at ‘Australia’s backyard’: Report</a>

Washington has also expressed concern about&nbsp;China&nbsp;forming a military relationship, with U.S. officials citing this in February as a reason to re-open a U.S. embassy in Honiara, the capital of the&nbsp;Solomons.

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison told reporters he would speak with his counterparts in Papua&nbsp;New&nbsp;Guinea and Fiji about the matter on Monday.

"This is an issue of concern for the region, but it has not come as a surprise," he said.

The Pacific Island nation of fewer than a million people, 2,000 km (1,240 miles) northeast of Australia, switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019, signalling&nbsp;China's growing influence in the Pacific.

Its principal island is Guadalcanal, the scene of bitter fighting between U.S. and Japanese forces in 1942-43.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A Chinese military base in the pacific?

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New Zealand is gravely concerned about the possible militarization of the Pacific following a decision by the Solomon Islands government to form a security partnership with China, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday.

New Zealand is gravely concerned about the possible militarization of the Pacific following a decision by the Solomon Islands government to form a security partnership with China, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday. Confirmation on Friday by the Solomon Islands government that it was "diversifying" its security relationships beyond Australia has prompted alarm in Australia, New Zealand and the United States. Also read | 'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison "We see such acts as a potential militarization of the region and also see very little reason in terms of the Pacific security for such a need and such a presence," Ardern told Radio NZ when asked if it would be acceptable for China to station its military vessels in the Pacific country. "We do see this as gravely concerning." Solomon Islands opposition leader Matthew Wale said in an interview with ABC television he was disappointed Australia had not acted to stop a deal with China, after he warned Australia's high commissioner, or ambassador, last year. High Commissioner Lachlan Strahan responded on Monday, writing on Twitter: "Australia has raised its concerns with (the Solomons) about the proposed Solomons-China security cooperation agreement regularly and respectfully". The "Pacific family" was best placed to provide security assistance to the Solomon Islands, he added, with Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne quickly "liking" the tweet. Also read | China, Solomon Islands finalising pact to establish military presence at ‘Australia’s backyard’: Report Washington has also expressed concern about China forming a military relationship, with U.S. officials citing this in February as a reason to re-open a U.S. embassy in Honiara, the capital of the Solomons. Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison told reporters he would speak with his counterparts in Papua New Guinea and Fiji about the matter on Monday. "This is an issue of concern for the region, but it has not come as a surprise," he said. The Pacific Island nation of fewer than a million people, 2,000 km (1,240 miles) northeast of Australia, switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019, signalling China's growing influence in the Pacific. Its principal island is Guadalcanal, the scene of bitter fighting between U.S. and Japanese forces in 1942-43. Watch | Gravitas: A Chinese military base in the pacific?

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says Solomon Islands-China deal 'gravely concerning'

Australia&nbsp;Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday there was "great concern" across the Pacific after the Solomon Islands confirmed it was creating a security partnership with&nbsp;China.

The Pacific island nation on Friday said it was expanding ties with&nbsp;China&nbsp;to combat security threats and ensure a safe environment for investment as it diversifies security relations.

A potential&nbsp;China&nbsp;security pact with&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Island has sparked concerns among US&nbsp;allies&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;and New Zealand about Chinese influence a region where they have for decades held strong sway.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-great-barrier-reef-suffers-sixth-mass-bleaching-event-465452">Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffers sixth mass bleaching event</a>

Asked by reporters in Sydney about the matter, Morrison said "there is great concern across the Pacific family because we are in constant contact with our Pacific family".

"I will be in further discussions with leaders&nbsp;over&nbsp;the course of this weekend, there was a meeting yesterday with our head of mission and Prime Minister (Manasseh) Sogavare," he said.

Morrison said Sogavare on Friday indicated to Canberra that he appreciated&nbsp;Australia's ongoing support for the Solomon&nbsp;Islands.

"We are the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands' single largest development partner, daylight second, third, fourth," Morrison said.

Australia&nbsp;has previously expressed concern about the impact on regional security of military cooperation between&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;after a draft document outlining the proposed cooperation was leaked this week.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsettling-influences-australia-reacts-sharply-to-chinese-military-moves-in-solomon-islands-465323">&nbsp;Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands&nbsp;</a>

On Thursday, a&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;official told Reuters a security&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with&nbsp;China&nbsp;covering the military would be sent to its cabinet for consideration. The&nbsp;Solomons has already signed a policing&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with&nbsp;China.

Solomon&nbsp;Islands, a small island nation around 2,000 km (1,240 miles) northeast of&nbsp;Australia, switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019, signalling&nbsp;China's growing influence in the Pacific.

Washington last month said it would open an embassy in nation's the capital Honiara amid fears&nbsp;China&nbsp;was seeking to strengthen military relations there.

Watch |&nbsp;Australia bears brunt of climate change, authorities confirm mass bleaching event

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Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday there was "great concern" across the Pacific after the Solomon Islands confirmed it was creating a security partnership with China.

Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday there was "great concern" across the Pacific after the Solomon Islands confirmed it was creating a security partnership with China. The Pacific island nation on Friday said it was expanding ties with China to combat security threats and ensure a safe environment for investment as it diversifies security relations. A potential China security pact with Solomon Island has sparked concerns among US allies Australia and New Zealand about Chinese influence a region where they have for decades held strong sway. Also read | Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffers sixth mass bleaching event Asked by reporters in Sydney about the matter, Morrison said "there is great concern across the Pacific family because we are in constant contact with our Pacific family". "I will be in further discussions with leaders over the course of this weekend, there was a meeting yesterday with our head of mission and Prime Minister (Manasseh) Sogavare," he said. Morrison said Sogavare on Friday indicated to Canberra that he appreciated Australia's ongoing support for the Solomon Islands. "We are the Solomon Islands' single largest development partner, daylight second, third, fourth," Morrison said. Australia has previously expressed concern about the impact on regional security of military cooperation between China and the Solomon Islands after a draft document outlining the proposed cooperation was leaked this week. Also read | Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands On Thursday, a Solomon Islands official told Reuters a security deal with China covering the military would be sent to its cabinet for consideration. The Solomons has already signed a policing deal with China. Solomon Islands, a small island nation around 2,000 km (1,240 miles) northeast of Australia, switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019, signalling China's growing influence in the Pacific. Washington last month said it would open an embassy in nation's the capital Honiara amid fears China was seeking to strengthen military relations there. Watch | Australia bears brunt of climate change, authorities confirm mass bleaching event

'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison

After a wide-ranging proposed security agreement between Beijing and Honiara was leaked online, Australia's defence minister said on Friday that any move to construct a Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would be a cause for concern.

The plans, which must be approved by the Solomon Islands' cabinet, would allow China to deploy security and navy forces to the Pacific island nation.&nbsp;

Australia is concerned about a proposed security pact between China and the Solomon Islands, which may provide a safe harbour for Chinese navy warships nearly 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles) from Australia's mainland.

A copy of the agreement was distributed on social media by a New Zealand academic on Thursday, prompting the ministers to speak out.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation confirmed the document's authenticity, although it's unknown how far the talks have progressed.&nbsp;

In an interview with Channel Nine, Defence Minister Peter Dutton said in an interview that Australia had 50 police in the Solomon Islands at the request of Honiara and that they would remain there until 2023.

"We would be concerned, clearly, at any military base being established and we would express that to the Solomon Islands government," he said.

"We want peace and stability in the region. We don't want unsettling influences and we don't want pressure and coercion that we are seeing from China continuing to roll out in the region."

The Solomon Islands would be able to request Chinese military aid in the event of a disaster or political disturbance, while Beijing would be permitted to "perform ship visits to, carry out logistical replenishment in, and have stopovers in" the Solomon Islands, according to the paper.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: China gets another military base in Tajikistan

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In the last decade, China has increased its footprint in the Pacific as part of its global outreach to poor countries to strengthen economic and security connections. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Chinese bribes triggered a riot in this country

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In recent years, the Solomon Islands administration, led by Prime Minister Mannesseh Sogavare, has deepened ties with Beijing, including a disputed decision in September 2019 to switch the country's diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After a wide-ranging proposed security agreement between Beijing and Honiara was leaked online, Australia's defence minister said on Friday that any move to construct a Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would be a cause for concern.

After a wide-ranging proposed security agreement between Beijing and Honiara was leaked online, Australia's defence minister said on Friday that any move to construct a Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would be a cause for concern. The plans, which must be approved by the Solomon Islands' cabinet, would allow China to deploy security and navy forces to the Pacific island nation. Australia is concerned about a proposed security pact between China and the Solomon Islands, which may provide a safe harbour for Chinese navy warships nearly 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles) from Australia's mainland. A copy of the agreement was distributed on social media by a New Zealand academic on Thursday, prompting the ministers to speak out. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation confirmed the document's authenticity, although it's unknown how far the talks have progressed. In an interview with Channel Nine, Defence Minister Peter Dutton said in an interview that Australia had 50 police in the Solomon Islands at the request of Honiara and that they would remain there until 2023. "We would be concerned, clearly, at any military base being established and we would express that to the Solomon Islands government," he said. "We want peace and stability in the region. We don't want unsettling influences and we don't want pressure and coercion that we are seeing from China continuing to roll out in the region." The Solomon Islands would be able to request Chinese military aid in the event of a disaster or political disturbance, while Beijing would be permitted to "perform ship visits to, carry out logistical replenishment in, and have stopovers in" the Solomon Islands, according to the paper. Watch | Gravitas: China gets another military base in Tajikistan In the last decade, China has increased its footprint in the Pacific as part of its global outreach to poor countries to strengthen economic and security connections. Watch | Gravitas: Chinese bribes triggered a riot in this country In recent years, the Solomon Islands administration, led by Prime Minister Mannesseh Sogavare, has deepened ties with Beijing, including a disputed decision in September 2019 to switch the country's diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. (With inputs from agencies)

Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands

China and Solomon Islands are negotiating a security agreement to establish a Chinese military presence on the island, according to a leaked draft report.

According to the draft security agreement circulating on social media on Thursday, it would allow China to “protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects” in the Pacific, less than 2,000km off Australia’s coast.

The leaked document says the Solomon Islands, which lies east of Papua New Guinea, could “request China to send police, armed and military personnel and other law enforcement agencies” to the country.

The ABC news channel confirmed the authenticity of the draft report shared on social media.

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The draft security cooperation agreement between China and Solomon Islands has been linked on social media and raises a lot of questions (and concerns). (photos of agreement in this and below tweet) 1/6 <a href="https://t.co/nnpnJJQC7r">pic.twitter.com/nnpnJJQC7r</a>
— Dr Anna Powles (@AnnaPowles) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnaPowles/status/1506845794728837120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The leaked document has sent jitters in Australia, which had been helping the Solomon Islands to help maintain peace after it was embroiled in a deadly civil war.

The discontent in the island was fuelled by prime minister Manasseh Sogavare’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan and switch sides with China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-riots-whats-behind-the-protests-431839">Solomon islands riots: What’s behind the protests?</a>

Recently a contingent of Chinese police officers was deployed to the Solomon Islands to work with local authorities after last year's deadly anti-government riots, the Daily Mail reported.

Australia’s minister for home affairs, Karen Andrews, told reporters on Thursday the Pacific was Australia’s “backyard”, when asked about the possibility of the Chinese military operating in the Solomon Islands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-pm-manasseh-sogavare-defies-pressure-to-resign-after-unrest-432554">Solomon Islands: PM Manasseh Sogavare defies pressure to resign after unrest</a>

“In relation to China, in relation to the Pacific region, that is our back yard, that is our neighbourhood, and we are very concerned about any activity that is taking place in the Pacific islands,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

China and Solomon Islands are negotiating a security agreement to establish a Chinese military presence on the island, according to a leaked draft report. According to the draft security agreement circulating on social media on Thursday, it would allow China to “protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects” in the Pacific, less than 2,000km off Australia’s coast.

China and Solomon Islands are negotiating a security agreement to establish a Chinese military presence on the island, according to a leaked draft report. According to the draft security agreement circulating on social media on Thursday, it would allow China to “protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects” in the Pacific, less than 2,000km off Australia’s coast. The leaked document says the Solomon Islands, which lies east of Papua New Guinea, could “request China to send police, armed and military personnel and other law enforcement agencies” to the country. The ABC news channel confirmed the authenticity of the draft report shared on social media. The draft security cooperation agreement between China and Solomon Islands has been linked on social media and raises a lot of questions (and concerns). (photos of agreement in this and below tweet) 1/6 pic.twitter.com/nnpnJJQC7r — Dr Anna Powles (@AnnaPowles) March 24, 2022 × The leaked document has sent jitters in Australia, which had been helping the Solomon Islands to help maintain peace after it was embroiled in a deadly civil war. The discontent in the island was fuelled by prime minister Manasseh Sogavare’s decision to cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan and switch sides with China. Also read | Solomon islands riots: What’s behind the protests? Recently a contingent of Chinese police officers was deployed to the Solomon Islands to work with local authorities after last year's deadly anti-government riots, the Daily Mail reported. Australia’s minister for home affairs, Karen Andrews, told reporters on Thursday the Pacific was Australia’s “backyard”, when asked about the possibility of the Chinese military operating in the Solomon Islands. Also read | Solomon Islands: PM Manasseh Sogavare defies pressure to resign after unrest “In relation to China, in relation to the Pacific region, that is our back yard, that is our neighbourhood, and we are very concerned about any activity that is taking place in the Pacific islands,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

China, Solomon Islands finalising pact to establish military presence at ‘Australia’s backyard’: Report

&nbsp;China is seeking to establish military relationships in the Pacific, a senior US&nbsp;administration official said on Saturday, as Washington promised more diplomatic and security resources for the region, including an embassy in the Solomon Islands.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken will announce plans for the embassy in the Solomon Islands, which switched its diplomatic allegiance to China from Taiwan in 2019, while on a visit to Fiji where he will host a virtual summit with 18 Pacific leaders, a state department official said.

Blinken flew to Fiji after a meeting in Melbourne of the United States, Japan, India and Australia, at which the so-called Quad pledged to deepen cooperation to ensure an Indo-Pacific region free from "coercion," a thinly veiled swipe at China`s economic and military expansion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eyeing-china-united-states-pledges-to-step-up-effort-in-indo-pacific-region-452543">Eyeing China, United States pledges to step up effort in Indo-Pacific region</a>

In a briefing on the flight, a senior U.S. administration official told travelling reporters that "there are very clear indications that (China) want to create military relationships in the Pacific".

"The most pressing case right now is what`s going on in the Solomon Islands. With Chinese security personnel bucking up an increasingly besieged president in a way that has caused a lot of anxieties across the region," the official said.

Last November, violent protests erupted in the Solomon Islands capital of Honiara after Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare refused to speak with protesters who had travelled from Malaita province, which had opposed the diplomatic switch to Beijing.

Around 200 police and soldiers from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea arrived in Honiara within days of the riots, at Sogavare`s request.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-labour-organization-slams-china-for-racial-and-religious-discrimination-in-xinjiang-452555">&nbsp;International Labour Organization slams China for racial and religious discrimination in Xinjiang</a>

Sogavare accused the provincial government in Malaita, the most populous province in the country, of being "Taiwan`s agent", and in December survived a no-confidence motion in parliament.

China later sent police advisers to help train Solomons police, and equipment including shields, helmets and batons 
INDO-PAC STRATEGY

Blinken`s visit to Fiji, the first by a U.S. secretary of state in four decades, comes after the Biden administration issued a strategy overview for the Indo-Pacific in which it vowed to commit more diplomatic and security resources to the region to push back against China.

In the document, the United States vowed to modernise alliances, strengthen emerging partnerships and said it would pursue a "free and open Indo-Pacific ... through a latticework of strong and mutually reinforcing coalitions."

Under an action plan for the next 12-24 months, the document said Washington would "meaningfully expand" its diplomatic presence in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands and prioritise key negotiations with Pacific island states that cover access for the U.S. military and which have appeared to stall in the past year.

Watch |&nbsp;Washington still reluctant to completely trust Beijing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-chinese-counter-part-xi-jinping-hold-meet-430746/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Richard Clark, a spokesman for the president of one of the island nations, the Federated States of Micronesia, told Reuters a "tremendous amount of progress" was still needed in talks with Washington.

Blinken is in the region to emphasise the priority the United States attaches to the Indo-Pacific even as Washington grapples with a dangerous standoff with Moscow, which has massed some 100,000 troops near Ukraine`s border, stoking Western fears of an invasion.

China is seeking to establish military relationships in the Pacific, a senior US administration official said on Saturday, as Washington promised more diplomatic and security resources for the region, including an embassy in the Solomon Islands.

China is seeking to establish military relationships in the Pacific, a senior US administration official said on Saturday, as Washington promised more diplomatic and security resources for the region, including an embassy in the Solomon Islands. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will announce plans for the embassy in the Solomon Islands, which switched its diplomatic allegiance to China from Taiwan in 2019, while on a visit to Fiji where he will host a virtual summit with 18 Pacific leaders, a state department official said. Blinken flew to Fiji after a meeting in Melbourne of the United States, Japan, India and Australia, at which the so-called Quad pledged to deepen cooperation to ensure an Indo-Pacific region free from "coercion," a thinly veiled swipe at China`s economic and military expansion. Also read | Eyeing China, United States pledges to step up effort in Indo-Pacific region In a briefing on the flight, a senior U.S. administration official told travelling reporters that "there are very clear indications that (China) want to create military relationships in the Pacific". "The most pressing case right now is what`s going on in the Solomon Islands. With Chinese security personnel bucking up an increasingly besieged president in a way that has caused a lot of anxieties across the region," the official said. Last November, violent protests erupted in the Solomon Islands capital of Honiara after Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare refused to speak with protesters who had travelled from Malaita province, which had opposed the diplomatic switch to Beijing. Around 200 police and soldiers from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea arrived in Honiara within days of the riots, at Sogavare`s request. Also read | International Labour Organization slams China for racial and religious discrimination in Xinjiang Sogavare accused the provincial government in Malaita, the most populous province in the country, of being "Taiwan`s agent", and in December survived a no-confidence motion in parliament. China later sent police advisers to help train Solomons police, and equipment including shields, helmets and batons INDO-PAC STRATEGY Blinken`s visit to Fiji, the first by a U.S. secretary of state in four decades, comes after the Biden administration issued a strategy overview for the Indo-Pacific in which it vowed to commit more diplomatic and security resources to the region to push back against China. In the document, the United States vowed to modernise alliances, strengthen emerging partnerships and said it would pursue a "free and open Indo-Pacific ... through a latticework of strong and mutually reinforcing coalitions." Under an action plan for the next 12-24 months, the document said Washington would "meaningfully expand" its diplomatic presence in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands and prioritise key negotiations with Pacific island states that cover access for the U.S. military and which have appeared to stall in the past year. Watch | Washington still reluctant to completely trust Beijing Richard Clark, a spokesman for the president of one of the island nations, the Federated States of Micronesia, told Reuters a "tremendous amount of progress" was still needed in talks with Washington. Blinken is in the region to emphasise the priority the United States attaches to the Indo-Pacific even as Washington grapples with a dangerous standoff with Moscow, which has massed some 100,000 troops near Ukraine`s border, stoking Western fears of an invasion.

Washington plans Solomon Islands embassy in push to counter China

Australia's cops begin to take charge as Solomon unrest continues

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