Solomon Islands: Solomon Islands’ policing deal with China sparks concerns in West | India News

SYDNEY: Solomon Islands has denied suggestions by Australia and others its policing deal with Beijing is “a threat to the Pacific region peace” and says China will enhance the capability of its 1,500 police officers in cyber security and community policing.
The US, Australia, New Zealand and Solomon Islands’ opposition party have called for PM Manasseh Sogavare to “immediately” publish details of the policing deal signed in Beijing on Monday, amid concern it will invite further regional contest. On Friday, Sogavare’s office said the Pacific Islands nation was broadening its security partnerships, and the Chinese police will add to the existing Australia and New Zealand policing support.
Australia’s foreign minister Penny Wong said she had “conveyed Australia’s clear views” with China’s diplomat Wang Yi on Thursday. “Solomon Islands fails to see how the improvement of (Royal Solomon Islands Police Force) traffic control and management system in Honiara. . . is a threat to the Pacific region peace and security,” said Sogavare’s office.