Wang Yi Lands in the South Pacific With Big Ambitions to Expand Chinese Influence in the Region

Solomon Island's Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele escorts Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi upon arrival at the Henderson International Airport in Honiara. STRINGER / AFP

Great Power politics arrived in the South Pacific on Wednesday night when Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and a 20-member entourage landed in the Solomon Islands capital of Honiara.

Wang is embarking on a 10-day, seven-nation tour of the region where he is expected to unveil an ambitious proposal that will significantly expand China’s presence in the region on everything from security to fishing.

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