NEWCASTLE, Australia (AP) — Australia’s deputy prime minister pledged support to the Solomon Islands during a visit to the archipelago nation on Tuesday, as Canberra intensifies efforts to counter China’s growing influence in the South Pacific.
Richard Marles’ trip to the capital, Honiara, was the first by an Australian government minister since Jeremiah Manele was elected Solomon Islands’ new prime minister earlier this month.
Marles pledged to provide healthcare and border control support to the island nation and said at a news conference his visit provided an opportunity to discuss Solomons’ “priorities and the way in which Australia can help and contribute.”
“Australia sought to be the Solomons’ go-to security partner and had to work to earn that right. Hence, going to Solomon Islands quickly,” said Marles, who is also Australia’s defense minister.
Related articles:
Related suggestion:
Vietnam police arrest assistant to National Assembly chairman — Radio Free AsiaMoment 'Hardest Geezer' crosses the finish line at the London Marathon in 4hrs 25minsChina's interbank treasury bond index opens higher FridayANDREW PIERCE: Will Keir criticism see Mandy back in the wilderness?China's central bank adds liquidity via reverse reposChina's new Hugo Award winner draws inspiration from history and traditional cultureHoroscope today: Daily guide to what the stars have in store for YOUUS and Philippine forces launch combat drills in the disputed South China SeaOlivia Dunne shares selfie in allGlimpses of Beijing through windows and doorways
2.9408s , 6500.296875 kb
Copyright © 2024 Powered by Australia's deputy prime minister pledges support to Solomon Islands during visit to Honiara ,International Illustrations news portal