China's Security Deal with Solomons Raises Alarm in Pacific
What remains most unclear is the extent of China’s ambitions.
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What remains most unclear is the extent of China’s ambitions.
WELLINGTON--A security alliance between China and the Solomon Islands has sent shudders throughout the South Pacific, with many worried it could set off a large-scale military buildup or that Western animosity to the deal could play into China’s hands.
A draft version of the agreement, leaked last week, detailed measures to allow Chinese security and naval deployments to the crisis-hit Pacific island nation.
China signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands, prompting 'grave concerns' in Australia and the US. Chinese police (pictured training Islands cops) will help maintain 'social order'.
A $1.5 billion funding package for a new port could be used by the military, as Defence chiefs voice concern over the Solomons Island-China security pact.