According to his office, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare travelled to China on Saturday to improve their “serious” relationship, as Beijing consolidates its expanding influence in the Pacific region.
The two countries’ growing connections, which include a classified defense treaty signed between Beijing and Honiara last year, have alarmed the US and its neighboring allies, including Australia.
The Solomon Islands prime minister’s office announced in a statement that Sogavare’s official visit from July 9 to 15 is at the request of Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
The visit is being paid for by Beijing, according to the statement.
According to the announcement, the Solomons’ leader will open an embassy in Beijing and meet with high-ranking members of the government and business executives. He will also visit Jiangsu and Guangdong provinces.
“During the visit, leaders of the two countries will further strengthen current bilateral ties and share their views as well as further cementing understanding on issues of common concern,” the Solomons said.
“Since its inception, the relationship continues to thrive and expand, a testament of a serious connection.”
While the United States and its allies have been the dominating force in the region since at least World War II, China is increasingly eager to gain a military footing and challenge the United States’ dominance.
Sogavare told AFP last week that he had requested a “review” of a long-standing defense treaty with Australia, without explaining what modifications he wanted.
But Sogavare insisted that he was not attempting to harm relations with Australia.
“You know, Australia remains a significant aid donor and a major development partner to Solomon Islands and we want to further enhance that relationship,” he said.
“I have also asked for more collaboration from Australia, especially in terms of development among others.”
The Australian government characterized the call for a review as an opportunity to revise the agreement in light of the “contemporary security environment” and Canberra’s assistance.
