Solomon Islands Says China Not Influencing Diplomatic Decisions

Solomon Islands says China not influencing diplomatic decisions

Solomon Islands defended its move to bar some partners from an influential summit of South Pacific leaders, brushing aside claims on Thursday of a looming split or that China is influencing its decisions.

Solomon Islands’ external relations amid great power competition

By Derek Futaiasi and Denghua ZhangHoniara--The rise of China in the Pacific region has brought countries like the Solomon Islands and the region at large into the spotlight. Australia's Albanese government has ramped up spending and engagement to balance influence and the US has made sharp rebukes about Chinese regional engagement. The Solomon Islands case, elaborated below, suggests it might be time for all actors, including the Solomon Island…