UNBELIEVABLE: 5 - Caught on Camera

Solomon Islands eyes ‘long-lasting legacy’ as counts down to Pacific Games

The event has cost an estimated $250m, but the government believes it is money well spent given the potential benefits.

Al Jazeera · Nov 16, 2023

What do people in the Pacific really think of China? It's more nuanced than you may imagine

China has been steadily increasing its footprint in the Pacific in recent years as it attempts to deepen its influence and challenge the traditionally strong relationships many countries have with the US and Australia.

The Conversation · Nov 13, 2023

Both the US and Australia are adamant the Pacific "matters". But only one is really moving the dial

Just before the second summit between the US and the Pacific Islands Forum at the White House in September, the US hosts took Pacific leaders to an American football game. One, however, was conspicuously absent: Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

The Conversation · Nov 6, 2023

Solomon Islands MPs demand answers over ‘replica’ guns from China

Opposition leader Matthew Wale accuses police commissioner of misleading citizens after Al Jazeera report.

Al Jazeera · Sep 5, 2023

China ‘gifts’ and cost concerns: Pacific Games stir controversy in Solomon Islands

The host nation has attracted criticism over the price tag of November’s event, while an expert labels Chinese funding ‘shrewd diplomacy’

The Guardian - AU · Sep 5, 2023

China’s ‘replica’ guns for Solomon Islands likely real, US cable claimed

US diplomats doubted explanations that Chinese shipment contained replica weapons, previously unseen documents show.

Al Jazeera · Sep 1, 2023

US delegate says Solomon Islands PM was too ‘busy’ to meet him

Congressman Neal Dunn, part of select committee on competition with China, says failure to meet Manasseh Sogavare was a ‘missed opportunity’

The Guardian - AU · Aug 17, 2023

Solomon Islands newspaper pledged to promote ‘truth about China’s generosity’ in return for funding

The Solomon Star denies accusations of ‘giving away’ its independence by accepting thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment

The Guardian - AU · Aug 2, 2023

Australia should offer our 'Pacific family' access rather than simply reacting to China

During his recent speech at the Solomon Islands National University, Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy said “strategic competition […] is an unavoidable reality for our region”.

The Conversation · Jul 31, 2023

Morning Mail: sports stars join yes campaign, Solomons reject ‘unneighbourly’ Australia, China sets heat record

Indigenous legends sign the official yes pamphlet to energise campaign, while Solomon Islands leader takes a shot at Canberra

The Guardian - AU · Jul 17, 2023