NEWCASTLE, Australia (AP) — Australia’s deputy prime minister pledged support to the Solomon Islands during a visit to the archipelago nation on Tuesday, as Canberra intensifies efforts to counter China’s growing influence in the South Pacific.
Richard Marles’ trip to the capital, Honiara, was the first by an Australian government minister since Jeremiah Manele was elected Solomon Islands’ new prime minister earlier this month.
Marles pledged to provide healthcare and border control support to the island nation and said at a news conference his visit provided an opportunity to discuss Solomons’ “priorities and the way in which Australia can help and contribute.”
“Australia sought to be the Solomons’ go-to security partner and had to work to earn that right. Hence, going to Solomon Islands quickly,” said Marles, who is also Australia’s defense minister.
UN maritime tribunal says countries are legally required to reduce greenhouse gas pollution
China to start second round of shuttle diplomacy on Ukraine crisis
China to start second round of shuttle diplomacy on Ukraine crisis
European leaders hit back at Macron remark
Germany and Real Madrid great Toni Kroos to retire after Euro 2024
Senior adviser upbeat about HK's future
Peace talks sans Russia absurd: Kremlin
West accused of dragging Russia into arms race
Singapore Airlines: 1 dead, others injured after London
At UN, China calls for aid to make it to Gaza
Pogacar extends Giro lead to over 7 minutes after winning altered Stage 16 amid protests at start
China's national legislature to hold press conference ahead of annual session