Solomon Islands and China strengthen ties, move worries US, Pacific allies

The Solomon Islands' new prime minister is in Beijing for a visit as China and the strategic Pacific archipelago strengthen their ties.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele met his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang on Thursday and was holding more meetings Friday before his departure Monday.

China's influence increased significantly during the term of Manele's predecessor, with the country switching diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China and striking a secret security pact that has raised fears of China's security forces gaining a foothold in the region long dominated by the US, Australia and New Zealand.

Those moves came at a time of major tensions between Washington and Beijing, and the Solomons' tighter ties with China are seen as undermining the influence of the US and other traditional allies in the Western Pacific.

During their meeting, Li pushed for closer economic cooperation and a strategic partnership between China, the Solomons and other Pacific island nations, according to ..