Solomon Islands Reviews China Security Pact to Reset Australia Ties

Prime Minister Matthew Wale of the Solomon Islands announced a review of a secretive 2022 security pact with China during his first official overseas visit to Canberra on June 3, 2026. Wale stated he only received a copy of the agreement a day before his trip and had to remove certain officials from key positions to obtain the document. The pact, signed under former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, had previously raised concerns in Australia and the United States regarding a potential Chinese naval presence in the South Pacific.

During the visit, Wale and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese agreed to negotiate a new comprehensive strategic treaty to reset bilateral relations. This renewed cooperation includes advancing the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force-Australian Federal Police Partnership Program, with potential funding of $190 million for training and expansion. Australia also committed $35 million in aid for energy shocks and recovery from Cyclone Maila, while doubling vocational scholarships to 1,500 by 2027.

Albanese asserted that Australia intends to be the security partner of choice for the region. In response, China's Foreign Ministry expressed readiness to expand pragmatic cooperation with the new Solomon Islands government. Wale also indicated he is in discussions with the United States regarding critical infrastructure financing as he seeks to balance geopolitical rivalries.