Biden seeks to win over Pacific leaders as Solomon Islands turns back on talks

Historic' summit seen as part of effort to counter Beijing in the region as Pacific leaders seek more support on climate change

• China's rising power in the Pacific explained in 30 seconds

President Joe Biden will host Pacific leaders at the White House this week as the US seeks to bolster its engagement with the nations amid growing concern about China's presence in the region.

The US is expected to offer funding for infrastructure and more maritime cooperation, and new embassies for Cook Islands and Nuie. But the talks have already suffered a setback as Solomon Islands prime minister Manasseh Sogavare, now closely aligned with Beijing, will not attend.