The visit of Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare to Beijing emphasizes the ongoing rivalry between the United States and China in the South Pacific. During the visit, PM Sogavare held meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. Notably, significant agreements on police, economic, and technical cooperation were signed under the joint supervision of Mr. Sogavare and Mr. Li.
The strengthening relationship between the Solomon Islands and China has raised concerns in Washington and Australia regarding Beijing’s expanding influence in the South Pacific. As geopolitical tensions persist, the engagement between the Solomon Islands and China highlights the intricate dynamics at play in the region.
