Australia and New Zealand have raised 'grave' concerns about the potential for a Chinese military presence on the Solomon Islands, amid growing tensions in the Pacific region
China, which regards Taiwan as part of its territory, has previously expressed concern about Western military activity close to its borders.New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the move by the Solomons as"gravely concerning" and warned of a possible"militarisation" of the region, speaking to Radio NZ.
The Solomon Islands, whose capital is Honiara, is home to less than a million people but its recent expansion of relations with China has rung alarm bells way beyond its borders. Washington last month said it would open an embassy in the nation's capital amid fears China was seeking to strengthen military relations there.Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele attend a signing ceremony in 2019. Pic: APOn Saturday, Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison said"there is great concern across the Pacific family because we are in constant contact with our Pacific family".
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