China has built ties with small nations in the Pacific,worrying the US,Australia and New Zealand,who have long seen the region as their sphere of influence.
The Australians are part of an international security contingent that arrived in December 2021 to quell anti-government riots and was due to leave this year.
The US ambassador to Australia,a member of America’s most storied political dynasty,has embraced everything from sausages and surfing to sheep and “shitboxes”.
Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Chris Hipkins issued their strongest joint statement to date on Beijing’s growing regional power.
In a bid to counter China’s growing power in the region,the US envisions hiring up to 40 staffers over the next five years for each of its four new embassies.
The two countries have signed nine new deals,including on police cooperation,as an upgrade of bilateral relations as leader Manasseh Sogavare visits Beijing.
After long days of talks,haggling and compromise,some progress was made in London as nations came together.
Despite the government’s vow to act on climate and strengthen ties with the Pacific,Australia has declined to back a plan to clean up global shipping.
Malaita premier Daniel Suidani had spoken out against Chinese investment and opposed a major security deal with Beijing.
The strong earthquake collapsed the roof of the Australian High Commission in Honiara. Staff are safe and officials trying to confirm the safety of other Australians.
Opposition Leader Mathew Wale said Australia was trying to “suck up” to Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and out-compete China for influence.