After its security alliance with the Solomon Islands, which has been criticized by Western countries, China is now seeking court from other island nations in the Pacific. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Thursday at the start of a 10-day tour of the region that China’s relations with the Solomon Islands could serve as a model for other countries. The Solomon Islands have gained a “sincere and reliable partner” in China.
Next week, Wang plans to sign a cross-border agreement with nearly a dozen Pacific island states in Fiji. It should also concern the domains of police, security and data communication.
Reach for the Pacific
China’s plan is being viewed critically by the US, Australia, Japan and New Zealand as a sign of China’s growing influence in the region. They fear, among other things, that China could gain a military foothold in the Pacific Ocean. “We do not believe that importing security forces from China and their methods will help any country in the Pacific,” a US State Department spokesman said recently. “This can only fuel regional and international tensions and heighten concerns that Beijing is expanding its internal apparatus into the Pacific.”
China’s offer: free trade, climate, health
Meanwhile, a spokesman for China’s foreign ministry said Wang’s visit will strengthen mutual political trust and expand practical cooperation. China also provides the island nations with a free trade zone and support in areas such as climate change and health.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
