Foreign Minister Marise Payne maintains Australia is closely engaged with its Pacific island neighbours despite only finding out about a potential security pact with China through social media.
The draft of a security pact between China and the Solomon Islands was first leaked on social media before elements of the agreement were "initialled" by both sides on Thursday.
The deal between the Solomon Islands and China could involve the provision of police, security forces and training. But the arrival of Chinese navy vessels has raised concerns, with Australia's military saying it would impact operations.
