| As the world and especially the United States and NATO eyes the ongoing and deadly conflict between Russia and Ukraine, China continues to be the clear winner. To be sure, a leaked document has revealed that China and the Solomon Islands are close to signing a security agreement. The agreement could open the door to Chinese troops and naval warships flowing into a Pacific Island nation that once played a pivotal role for America in World War II. Charles Edel, the inaugural Australia chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, admitted: “This is deeply problematic for the United States and a real cause of concern for our allies and partners. The establishment of a base in the Solomon Islands by a strategic adversary would significantly degrade Australian, New Zealand’s, and US security, increase the chances of local corruption and heighten the chances of resource exploitation.” Edel was referring to the close relationship the US and Solomons had since World War-and much earlier. Not only was Hawaii offered sovereignty over Sikaiana in 1856, but Hawaii was annexed by the US in 1898. Moreover, Guadalcanal and the Solomon Islands became a focal point between US and Japanese forces during World War II. The Solomon Islands have continued to see American infrastructure and military training until now. The leaked document states that, “Solomon Islands may, according to its own needs, request China to send police, armed police, military personnel and other law enforcement and armed forces to Solomon Islands to assist in maintaining social order, protecting people’s lives and property.” It also allows China to provide “assistance on other tasks” and requires secrecy, noting, “Neither party shall disclose the cooperation information to a third party.” For Beijing, the deal is a tremendous reward. China can make ship visits to carry out logistical replenishment and have stopover and transition in the Solomon Islands. Having endured America’s condescending attitude for decades, the new president of the Solomon’s makes no secret of his desire to draw China Closer. This comes on the heels of possibly ending its 36-year diplomatic relationship with Taiwan. Another advantage is the agreement giving Chinese companies the right to build roads and bridges and to reopen one of the country’s goldmines. Although some local leaders have expressed opposition, it is apparent the US is losing its influence and strategic advantage in the Solomons and the region. Officials have become so concerned that they have cited the Solomons as a grave example of China’s approach throughout the Pacific. Other Pacific islands like Kiribati and Fiji have seen an increase in Chinese diplomats, construction deals and Chinese migration over the last five years. Although disputes and tensions have been growing over Beijing’s role in a region that has either been ignored or been seen as little more than dots on the map for the US to toy with, it is obvious that China continues to march across the Pacific Ocean even as the world focuses on Russia and Ukraine. Dallas Darling (darling@wn.com) |