Australia Signs $190 Million Security Deal with Solomon Islands

Australia has committed $190 million to enhance the policing capabilities of the Solomon Islands, a move aimed at countering China's growing influence in the Pacific. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Solomon Islands' Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele announced the agreement, which includes funding for a new police training center and ongoing support over four years. This initiative seeks to reduce the Solomon Islands' dependency on external partners, particularly China, which has had a police presence in the country since 2022. Albanese emphasized that this partnership is essential for establishing Australia as the security partner of choice, building on over 40 years of cooperation. The deal is part of a broader strategy to strengthen regional stability and improve relations with Pacific nations, which had been strained previously. Experts view this agreement as a significant step in ensuring Australia's influence remains strong in the region.