The agreement will also allow Chinese naval ships to stop in the Solomon Islands for “logistical support”.
Western nations fear the deal will allow China to establish a de facto naval base in the Pacific.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has defended the pact with China. He says the deal will not “undermine the peace and harmony of our region”.
Dr. Tess Cain from the Griffith Asia Institute told Ticker News China has significant economic interests in the Solomon Islands, which were threatened during the riots.
“Security has been a concern, particularly since the riots of last year where we saw Chinese businesses targeted,” she says.
Dr. Cain says the main reason for the deal is for China to protect these economic interests.
Dr. Cain says China is broadening its economic ties across the region. But she says there is nothing unusual about its desire to protect its economic interests.
“It’s not uncommon for countries, large countries such as China or the US to seek to protect their own citizens.” she says.
A naval base in the Pacific?
Nations including the U.S., Australia and New Zealand have voiced concerns that following the deal, the Solomon islands will become a Chinese military outpost.
Indeed, Australian Opposition Minister Penny Wong told the ABC the deal is “the worst foreign policy blunder in the Pacific since World War Two”.
While Dr. Cain refuses to rule any possibilities out, she believes a Chinese military base in the Pacific remains a remote possibility.
While the deal creates the potential for a higher presence of Chinese assets, Dr. Cain believes it is unlikely to make a noticeable difference.
TikTok’s fate in the United States has never been more in doubt.
Congress approved a bill, which President Joe Biden signed into law that gives its Chinese parent company two options: sell it to an approved buyer or see it banned.
But now, the owners of the popular social media app says they’re preparing to challenge the statute in court.
Andy Keiser a Senior Fellow at the National Security Institute, and a Former Senior Advisor for the House Intelligence Committee joins Veronica Dudo to discuss. #IN AMERICA TODAY #featured #business #socialmedia #TikTok #TikTokban #nationalsecurity
In an industry constantly looking towards the future, anniversary re-releases offer a welcome opportunity to celebrate the past.
In an era of nostalgia, anniversary re-releases of classic films like “Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace,” “Spider-Man 2,” and “Shrek 2” are captivating audiences anew.
From the thrill of podracing to the iconic battles between heroes and villains, these films offer a chance to relive cherished moments on the big screen.
Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man swings back into action, Shrek and his crew return for another hilarious adventure, and the galaxy far, far away beckons once more.
As fans of all ages flock to theaters, these timeless classics remind us why great storytelling endures, bridging generations and captivating audiences with their magic.
New research shows the impact of alcohol on our gut microbiome.
Alcohol affects gut microbes, potentially leading to gut imbalance and heightened cravings.
Research suggests moderate drinkers have healthier gut microbiomes. While red wine consumption may enhance gut diversity, similar benefits can be found in plant-based and fermented foods. Dysbiosis may worsen addiction, highlighting the need for holistic approaches to treatment.