Solomon port plans mark US reset of ‘anaemic’ Pacific ties

The move aims to ensure Honiara partners with Western allies in sectors with security implications, analysts say

Analysts say the latest bid reflects a desire to ensure Honiara partners with Western allies in sectors with security implications, while renewing the once “anaemic” relationship with the region as Chinese influence grows.

According to observers, the current security tilt of the Pacific island states is towards Australia, followed by the United States, then China.

Solomon Islands’ Prime Minister Matthew Wale said last Monday after returning from talks in Washington that America was in advanced talks to finance a port in his country.

US officials gave a “firm commitment, subject to details” to finance a wharf, power, fuel storage and roads at Bina Harbour, Wale said.

“Bina is a critical one,” he added, referring to the major project aimed at building a world-class tuna processing plant, creating thousands of jobs, and establishing a climate-resilient international port in Malaita province.