Australian PM to visit Solomon Islands as Pacific nation eyes ties with China
Western nations seek to rein in China’s influence on the tiny Pacific island and across the region
Sydney/Beijing — Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison will visit the Solomon Islands next week, as Western nations seek to rein in China’s influence on the tiny Pacific island and across the region. The visit comes as the US and its allies are trying to ensure that Pacific countries that have diplomatic links with Taiwan, do not severe those in favour of establishing them with Beijing. The Solomon Islands is one of only a handful of Pacific countries to recognise Taiwan, a policy now in question after recent elections on the islands. China views Taiwan as a renegade province with no right to state-to-state ties. Morrison’s first overseas trip since winning re-election in May will also be the first time an Australian prime minister has visited the Solomon Islands since 2008. “The Pacific is front and centre of Australia’s strategic outlook,” Morrison said. He did not mention efforts to preserve Taiwan’s diplomatic alliances, but analysts say the issue has become a flashpoint in...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.