The Latest Breaking News from Solomon Islands

China and the Solomon Islands have signed a draft version of a security pact that could see Chinese police and other forces take up duties in the Pacific Island nation, drawing concerns from traditional partners New Zealand, Australia and others

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Pacific nation has batted away concerns from Australia, New Zealand and the US, saying its policy is ‘friends to all and enemies to none’

Federated States of Micronesia President David Panuelo writes to his Solomon Islands counterpart over fears his country's new security ties could put the Pacific at the centre of geopolitical tensions between China and the US.

The leader of the Federated States of Micronesia has urged the Solomon Islands not to sign a security pact with China, saying he had "grave security concerns" and feared the Pacific could become embroiled in war between China and the United States.

One of the Australian Defence Force's most senior officers has warned if China manages to station warships in Solomon Islands it would force a change to Defence operations. It comes as the Defence Minister says the government will have "more to say" about a potential new port in Darwin.

The defence force's joint operations chief says Chinese navy vessels in the Solomons would change Australian military operations.

Taking countries’ preferences and needs seriously is the first step to strengthening leadership in the region

Coalition urged to refrain from megaphone diplomacy as it tries to persuade Honiara to change course

The Solomon Islands may now be a fulcrum on which Western historical commitments and China’s rising influence in the Pacific are delicately balanced, writes Stephen Hoadley.

Australia's spending on defence cooperation in the Pacific region is being cut at the same time concerns grow over China's rising influence over neighbouring countries such as Solomon Islands.