Solomon Islands PM says China-Solomon Islands Security deal clearly explained to Scott Morrison

The Solomon Islands PRIME Minister (PM) Manasseh Sogavare said the security deal finalised with the People's Republic of China (PRC) has been clearly explained to the PM of Australia Mr. Scott Morrison.

Sogavare made this clafification on the floor of parliament today following public outcry over a leaked document that alleged to allow China to establish their military base in Solomon Islands.

Solomon Islands PM says China-Solomon Islands deal clearly explained to Scott Morrison [Photo PRIME Minister (PM) Manasseh Sogavare ]

However, PM said what was reported in the media was gross misinformation about the intention to seek China's help to boost national security.

PM said he contacted Scott Morrison and explain clearly to him about the idea to have PRC assisting the country in the area of security.

"Bainimarama was also contacted about this as well as Marape of Papua New Guinea," PM inform parliament.

"We know our boundaries and we will not do anything that will spoil our relationship in the region and the forum members," clarify PM.

PM however stressed that national security remain a challenge that his government will not leave the burden on one country but must diversify assistance from our development partners. 

Sogavare went on by claiming to correct the misleading media reports that the security deal is not in anyway to establish China's Military base, but a form of security arrangement to boost the country's weakness in containing cyber crime, protection of maritime boundary, natural disaster particularly climate change or any form of terrorism or social unrest that may arise in the future. 

He said the security deal is pursued by Solomon Governnent as a sovereign state and not pressured by PRC as reported by the media.

PM reiterated that Solomon Islands will always remain friend to all member states of United Nation.

Statement

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