Solomon Islands Rejects Backlash Over Planned Security Deal With China

The Solomon Islands have come under harsh criticism from Australia over the Pacific island nation’s plans to sign a security pact with China. According to a leaked draft of the agreement, which hasn’t been finalized, the Solomon Islands could “request China to send police, armed police, military personnel and other law enforcement and armed forces.” China would also be able to “make ship visits, to carry out logistical replenishment in, and have stopover and transition in Solomon Islands.”