Solomon Islands denies policing deal with China poses ‘threat’ to Pacific security
by Guardian staff with agencies from World news | The Guardian on (#6CZ34)
Statement comes after US, Australia and New Zealand expressed concerns about new agreement with Beijing
Solomon Islands has said that its policing pact with China poses no threat" to the Pacific, rebuking western powers that raised fears the deal could inflame regional tensions.
Prime minister Manasseh Sogavare inked a raft of deals during a trip to China this week, including an agreement allowing Beijing to extend its police presence in the developing Pacific nation until 2025.
Continue reading...