Opposition Figurehead Decries China’s ‘Alarming’ Sway in Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands’ politician Daniel Suidani as he prepares to leave for his hometown to cast his vote in the country’s general elections in Honiara on April 15, 2024. Photo by Saeed KHAN / AFP

China’s growing hold over Pacific nation Solomon Islands is “alarming”, a powerful opposition figurehead told AFP Monday ahead of elections that could further entrench Beijing’s foothold in the region.

Solomon Islands has warmly embraced China under mercurial Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, with the two nations inking a murky security pact in 2022.

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by Agence France-Presse

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