Solomon Islands PM floats Pacific-wide security treaty in sharp pivot

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has proposed a Pacific-wide security pact, signaling a significant shift in the region's strategic landscape. During a visit to Canberra in early June, Wale, who also chairs the Pacific Islands Forum, discussed the idea with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

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at some stage at the regional level

This initiative marks a notable pivot by Wale, who took office in May. He has initiated negotiations for a new treaty with Australia and pledged to review the contentious security pact between Solomon Islands and China. However, he has carefully avoided direct criticism of Beijing, emphasizing its role as a valued economic partner and advocating for a policy of "friends to all, enemies to none."

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first reference point in these matters is within the region

Despite maintaining diplomatic ties with China, Wale has conveyed to Australia his conviction that a "Pacific-led" security framework is essential, aligning with Australia's concerns about China's growing influence in the region. His position as PIF chair until September provides a unique opportunity to advance discussions on this regional security architecture.

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This seems like a no-brainer, but there's also an obvious reason why it hasn't happened yet.

While Wale alluded to the proposal publicly, mentioning a potential regional treaty "at some stage," the willingness of Australia and New Zealand to support the idea remains uncertain. Analysts suggest the pact carries both opportunities and risks, with some noting that Australia might prefer to focus on solidifying existing bilateral agreements before backing a broader regional initiative. The path to a cohesive regional security approach is seen as an "uphill battle" due to the diverse security perspectives across Pacific nations.

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Trying to get one cohesive approach when there's such varied approaches to security across the region is an uphill battle, which has to be fought.