Australia, New Zealand and the US have raised concerns on security in the Pacific, after China signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands.
The deal was signed this week, fuelling fears China may seek to build a naval base in the Pacific nation.
The Solomon Islands had rebuffed last ditch efforts by Australia – its biggest aid donor – to stop the deal.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said the pact would not “undermine peace and harmony” in the region.
The Solomon Islands leader added that the pact was not aimed at traditional allies but “rather at our own internal security situation”.
He did not disclose the pact’s terms, but insisted it was made eyes wide open, guided by their national interests.
Taiwan National Day Celebration
