Samoa’s PM says China’s expectation of Pacific-wide deal ‘something we could not agree to’

Regional matters must be taken to Pacific Islands Forum, says Fiame Naomi Mata'afa after countries declined deal with Beijing

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get our free news app; get our morning email briefing

Samoa's prime minister has suggested it was unreasonable for China to expect a Pacific trade and security deal to be rushed through this week, as she warmly welcomed the new Australian government's climate policy.

The Australian minister for foreign affairs, Penny Wong, announced during a joint press conference in Samoa on Thursday that Australia would provide it with a new Guardian-class patrol vessel to replace the one that was grounded last year.

Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning