In a strategic move to counter China’s growing influence in the Pacific, Australia is channeling $190 million into enhancing the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force. This ambitious initiative includes establishing a new police training center in Honiara, the capital.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced this significant assistance package in Canberra, shortly after a political maneuver to unseat Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was thwarted in parliament. Both leaders emphasized that this support aims to bolster the Pacific nation’s sovereign security capabilities, reducing long-term dependency on external forces.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Manele expressed a desire to collaborate with Australia to double the size of the police force, a response to the unrest following the November 2021 riots. The investment will span four years, focusing on sustainable growth through enhanced funding, training, and infrastructure.
While China maintains a steady presence of police trainers in the Solomon Islands, Albanese assured that the new deal would prevent any expansion of China’s security footprint. He affirmed Australia’s commitment to being the “security partner of choice” for the Solomon Islands.
Experts hail this development as a victory for the Solomons, providing a crucial boost to their law-and-order sector. Although Chinese police operations will continue, Australia banks on its understanding with Solomon Islands to maintain its strategic influence, despite lacking a formal commitment akin to those with other Pacific nations.
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