Solomon Islands PM Plans Expansion of Security Deal With China, Calls Backlash 'Insulting'

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare defended the country's potential security deal expansion with China on Tuesday and responded to criticisms by saying that the backlash was "very insulting."

Last week, the Pacific Island nation confirmed that it was planning the deal with Beijing, a decision that immediately prompted concerns from regional leaders who are wary of China's growing international reach. Sogavare said in Parliament on Tuesday that being branded as unfit to manage sovereign affairs was an insult.

China-Solomon Islands Security Deal

The prime minister said that the nation's security approach was not done in a "vacuum" and not without due consideration to all of its partners. Sogavare added that the security deal with China was made at the request of the Solomon Islands and was not a result of pressure from allies.

Sogavare also took the time to criticize Australian media over its reports that Beijing was planning to construct a military base in the Solomon Islands. The base could possibly be a first for China in the Pacific region regarded by Canberra as its backyard, as per CNN.

The news of the security deal was revealed after a leaked draft of the agreement was discovered, triggering Australia and New Zealand authorities' concerns. The two neighbors argued that the deal could jeopardize regional stability by giving China the ability to base navy warships in the Pacific less than 2,000 kilometers off the Australian coast.

Sogavare refused to reveal additional details regarding the security deal between China and the Solomon Islands. However, the official noted that negotiations were already in the advanced stages and said the agreement was "ready for signing."

According to The Guardian, a commentator last week said that Australia "must be willing to invade the Solomon Islands and topple its government if that's what is necessary to stop a proposed security pact between China and the Pacific nation going ahead."

International Support

The prime minister said that the country was willing to accept any form of help from other nations in supporting the islands' security space. Sogavare said that the idea behind the security deal with China was not devious and had no secret plan. He argued that the decision was made by a sovereign nation that was thinking of its national interest at heart.

Sogavare added that the Solomon Islands previously requested that Australia build a naval base, which the latter refused. Australian officials said that it was inappropriate because of its existing defense program with Papua New Guinea.

Last year, during anti-government riots, the prime minister said that the region's Chinatown district located in the capital Honiara was burned down. He also noted there were threats to the sports infrastructure that were being prepared for the 2023 Pacific Games. The latter was a reference to seven stadiums that were under construction by China.

Under a 2017 security treaty, Australia previously provided police assistance to the Solomon Islands to restore order after the riots. Other nations, including New Zealand, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea, also sent forces to help with the chaos, Reuters reported.