The Solomon Islands-China Relationship: 5 Years On

The diplomatic relationship between the Solomon Islands and China, established five years ago, has profoundly influenced the country's development, economy, and political landscape.

This anniversary presents an opportune time to examine the trajectory of this relationship, key events, and the impact on the Solomon Islands while also considering recent political changes and the broader implications for the country's future.

Background on the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands, located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, is an archipelago nation consisting of six major islands and over 900 smaller ones. The country’s history is marked by globally significant events, such as the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II, which played a crucial role in the Allied victory in the Pacific theater. The Solomon Islands gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1978, and since then, it has navigated numerous political, economic, and social challenges.

In 1991, the Solomon Islands joined the category of least developed countries (LDCs), reflecting its economic challenges. The country is scheduled to graduate from this status on December 13, 2027, highlighting its ongoing efforts to achieve higher levels of development and economic stability. The upcoming transition marks a critical juncture in the nation’s advancement, influencing its foreign policy and international relations.

The Solomon Islands’ evolution has been shaped by its geographical isolation, limited infrastructure, and reliance on natural resources. The national economy is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and fishing, with these sectors providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population. However, the country faces challenges such as limited access to international markets, vulnerability to natural disasters, and political instability, all of which have impeded consistent economic growth and development.

Historical Relationship With Taiwan

From 1983 until 2019, the Solomon Islands maintained diplomatic relations with the Republic of China, also known as Taiwan.

During this period, Taiwan provided substantial aid to the Solomon Islands, including infrastructure projects, educational scholarships, and medical assistance. This relationship was part of Taiwan’s broader strategy to maintain international recognition in the face of the People’s Republic of China’s growing global influence. The Solomon Islands-Taiwan relationship was characterized by frequent high-level visits and bilateral cooperation, emphasizing the significance of the partnership for both countries.

However, as China’s global influence expanded, Taiwan’s diplomatic position weakened. By September 2019, the Solomon Islands decided to sever its diplomatic ties with Taiwan and establish formal relations with China. This shift aligned with a broader trend among Pacific nations re-evaluating their diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favor of China. Kiribati dropped Taiwan to establish a relationship with China the same month the Solomon Islands did; Nauru followed suit in January 2024.

The relationship with Taiwan had been beneficial for the Solomon Islands in several ways. Taiwan’s support included financial aid for development projects, technical assistance in agriculture and fisheries, and health services, particularly in rural and remote areas. This aid helped address some of the Solomon Islands’ critical needs and contributed to the country’s development efforts. However, Taiwan's resources and influence were limited compared to those of an increasingly powerful and globally dominant China.

The Diplomatic Shift: From Taiwan to China

The Solomon Islands’ decision to sever ties with Taiwan and establish diplomatic relations with China was a strategic move aimed at securing economic aid and investment from the latter.

The diplomatic shift was solidified in September 2019 when Solomon Islands’ then-Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeremiah Manele and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi signed an agreement in Beijing. Manele articulated that the decision to switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China was based on “national needs,” reflecting a strategic calculation to enhance the country’s development prospects through closer ties with its largest trading partner.

This decision marked a significant turning point in the Solomon Islands’ foreign policy. By aligning with China, the Solomon Islands sought to benefit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which aims to enhance global trade and infrastructure connectivity. The BRI has become a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy, offering countries financial support for infrastructure projects and economic development.

The Solomon Islands’ shift to China was met with mixed reactions domestically and internationally. Supporters of the move argued that closer ties with China would bring substantial economic benefits, including increased investment, infrastructure development, and access to Chinese markets. Critics, however, raised concerns about a potential loss of sovereignty, increased dependence on Chinese aid, and the impact on the Solomon Islands’ democratic practices and human rights.

Political Changes Since 2019

The shift in diplomatic relations occurred alongside significant political changes within the Solomon Islands. In 2024, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who played a central role in pivoting the country’s foreign policy toward China, declined to seek another term after his party’s less-than-optimal showing in the April general election. He stepped down from office, handing over the leadership to Manele. Manele’s tenure has been marked by a continued emphasis on strengthening the relationship with China.

In Malaita Province, meanwhile, former Premier Daniel Suidani, a vocal critic of the shift to China, opted not to contest the premiership after the 2024 provincial elections. He’d been disqualified and removed from the Malaita Provincial Assembly in May 2023 for failing to recognize the One China principle, but was reelected to the assembly in April 2024. Suidani’s decision not to seek a return to the provincial premiership reflects the shifting domestic dynamics and regional tensions related to the Solomon Islands’ foreign policy. His departure marked a significant change in the provincial political landscape and highlighted the internal conflicts arising from the country’s new diplomatic direction.

The political landscape in the Solomon Islands has been shaped by the interplay of local and national interests, as well as the influence of external actors. The diplomatic shift to China has intensified debates about the country’s future direction and the role of foreign influence in its development. These debates are not unique to the Solomon Islands; they reflect broader regional dynamics in the Pacific, where countries are navigating the complex landscape of great power competition and seeking to balance their national interests with external pressures.

Major Infrastructure Projects

China’s involvement in the Solomon Islands has been substantial, primarily through grant funding rather than loans. This approach has helped mitigate concerns about debt burdens and financial sustainability. Notable infrastructure projects funded by China include the construction and upgrading of facilities for the 2023 Pacific Games, held in Honiara. This investment has had a transformative impact on local infrastructure, creating job opportunities and enhancing the country’s sports and recreational facilities. The development of these facilities is seen as a key step in boosting the Solomon Islands’ capacity to host major regional events and promote tourism.

Another major project is the tar-sealing of roads in Auki, the provincial capital of Malaita. China will provide more than 100 million Solomon Islands dollars (US$11.8 million) for this project and other priority initiatives. The funding was confirmed in July during a meeting in Beijing between Manele, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, and President Xi Jinping. This substantial grant aims to address crucial infrastructure needs and support regional development.

Additionally, China is funding the construction of a SI$90 million Comprehensive Medical Center at the National Referral Hospital. This center is intended to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and enhance healthcare services in the Solomon Islands. The investment reflects China’s commitment to improving the country’s healthcare infrastructure and public health outcomes.

The focus on healthcare and infrastructure development highlights the multifaceted nature of China’s engagement in the Solomon Islands. These investments aim to address critical needs and contribute to long-term development goals. The Pacific Games facilities and the Comprehensive Medical Center are examples of how China’s support extends beyond immediate economic benefits to encompass social and public health improvements.

Educational and Cultural Exchanges

China’s support extends beyond infrastructure to education and cultural exchanges, further strengthening the bilateral relationship. China has offered 30 scholarships annually to Solomon Islands students, with 133 currently studying in various fields across Chinese universities. This educational support is a testament to the growing educational collaboration between the two countries. In addition, Fujian and Shandong provinces have provided 37 postgraduate scholarships for the upcoming year, further expanding opportunities for Solomon Islands students.

China has also facilitated sports training for Solomon Islands athletes by sending them to China for preparatory training before major events such as the Pacific Games. This support aims to improve the country’s sporting standards and enhance its performance in regional competitions.

Cultural exchange visits between the Solomon Islands government and China have fostered mutual understanding and cooperation. Recently, public servants from various government ministries returned from China, reflecting the broad scope of bilateral engagement and the ongoing collaboration between the two nations.

These educational and cultural exchanges are part of China’s broader soft power strategy, which aims to build long-term relationships and foster mutual understanding. By offering scholarships and training opportunities, China seeks to cultivate goodwill and create a network of individuals with positive experiences and connections to China. This approach aligns with China’s efforts to enhance its influence and build partnerships through people-to-people exchanges.

Economic and Social Impacts

China’s investments in the Solomon Islands have had a substantial impact on both the economy and social development. Chinese funding has stimulated growth in the construction and services sectors, creating jobs and improving infrastructure. Major projects, such as the Pacific Games facilities and road developments, have contributed to economic expansion and regional development.

The focus on healthcare and education, including the Comprehensive Medical Center and scholarships for students, has enhanced social services and public health. These initiatives contribute to the overall improvement of living standards and access to essential services in the Solomon Islands. By addressing critical needs and supporting long-term development goals, China's investments aim to create a positive impact on the country’s socio-economic landscape.

However, the Solomon Islands must navigate political tensions and ensure that its diplomatic relations align with its long-term goals and values. As the country moves forward, it will be essential to balance the benefits of Chinese investment with the need to address domestic concerns, including environmental sustainability, political autonomy, and economic independence.

China’s involvement in the Solomon Islands reflects a broader trend of increasing Chinese influence in the Pacific region. This trend has significant implications for regional dynamics and the geopolitical landscape. The Solomon Islands’ experience highlights the complexities of engaging with China and the need for careful consideration of the long-term implications of such relationships.

The impact of Chinese investment on the Solomon Islands’ economy is multifaceted. While infrastructure projects and financial support have provided significant benefits, there are also concerns about the potential negative effects of increased Chinese presence and influence. These concerns include the potential for economic dependency, social tensions, and the erosion of local cultures and traditions.

Challenges and Controversies

The diplomatic relationship with China has not been without its challenges and controversies. One of the most contentious issues over the last five years was the security pact between the Solomon Islands and China, which was leaked in March 2022. Critics argue that the agreement could pave the way for China to establish a military presence in the region, raising concerns about regional security and sovereignty. Prime Ministers Sogavare and Manele have repeatedly assured that there will be no Chinese military base established in the Solomon Islands, emphasizing that the country’s interests are purely economic and developmental.

Additionally, former Premier Suidani’s stance against the diplomatic shift, his subsequent ouster, and his most recent decision not to pursue the premiership again serve to highlight the internal political divisions and opposition to the country’s growing ties with China. These divisions emphasized the complexity of the diplomatic relationship and the need for careful management of both domestic and international dynamics.

Environmental concerns have also been a significant issue in the context of Chinese investments. The Solomon Islands’ rich natural resources and fragile ecosystems make it vulnerable to environmental degradation. Ensuring that infrastructure projects and other investments are conducted in an environmentally sustainable manner is essential for preserving the country's natural heritage and long-term development.

Adherence to the One China Principle and Its Impact

The Solomon Islands’ adherence to the One China principle has significant implications for its domestic and international policies. The One China principle, which asserts that there is only one China and that Taiwan is an integral part of China, is a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy. By recognizing this principle, the Solomon Islands has aligned itself with China’s stance on Taiwan and has committed to not engaging in official relations with the Taiwanese government.

The adherence to the One China principle has impacted the Solomon Islands’ diplomatic relations and has influenced its interactions with other countries. This policy shift has been accompanied by increased Chinese investment and support, as evidenced by the numerous infrastructure and development projects funded by China. However, it has also resulted in a reevaluation of the Solomon Islands’ international alliances and partnerships.

Domestically, the adherence to the One China principle has sparked debates about its impact on the rights and freedoms of the Solomon Islands’ citizens. The country’s constitution guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms, including life, liberty, security of the person, freedom of conscience, expression, assembly, and association. These rights are protected under chapter 3 of the constitution, which ensures that every person in the Solomon Islands is entitled to these fundamental rights and freedoms, regardless of race, place of origin, political opinions, color, creed, or sex.

The constitutional provisions emphasize the protection of individual rights and freedoms, subject to respect for the rights and freedoms of others and the public interest. These protections are designed to ensure that the enjoyment of rights and freedoms by individuals does not prejudice the rights and freedoms of others or the public interest. The adherence to the One China principle has raised questions about how these constitutional rights are balanced with the country’s foreign policy decisions and international commitments.

Critics argue that the alignment with China and the recognition of the One China principle could lead to increased pressure on the Solomon Islands’ government to conform to China’s political and ideological positions. This pressure could potentially impact the country’s democratic practices and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. Ensuring that the Solomon Islands maintains its commitment to constitutional principles while navigating its relationship with China is crucial for preserving democratic governance and safeguarding the rights of its citizens.

Regional and Global Implications

The China-Solomon Islands relationship has broader regional and global implications. In the Pacific, China’s increasing presence has raised concerns among traditional allies like Australia and the United States. These countries view China’s growing influence in the region as a strategic challenge and have sought to counterbalance it through their own diplomatic and aid efforts. The Solomon Islands’ diplomatic shift reflects the broader geopolitical competition in the Pacific, with countries navigating the complex dynamics of great power rivalry.

China’s engagement in the Pacific region is part of its broader strategy to expand its influence and secure its strategic interests. The BRI, of which the Solomon Islands is a participant, aims to enhance global trade and infrastructure connectivity. The Pacific region, with its strategic location and rich resources, is an important part of this initiative. China’s investments and diplomatic efforts in the region are aimed at building long-term partnerships and securing its interests.

The Solomon Islands’ experience highlights the challenges and opportunities of engaging with China in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. While Chinese investments have brought significant benefits, they also come with risks and challenges that require careful management. Balancing the need for economic development with the imperative of safeguarding sovereignty and maintaining balanced international relations is crucial for the Solomon Islands’ future.

The broader implications of the China-Solomon Islands relationship extend beyond the Pacific region. China’s engagement in the Solomon Islands is part of its global strategy to expand its influence and build partnerships around the world. This strategy has implications for global geopolitics, as countries navigate the complex dynamics of great power competition and seek to balance their national interests with external pressures.

Conclusion

The diplomatic relationship between the Solomon Islands and China, established five years ago, has had profound and far-reaching effects on the country's development, economy, and political landscape.

China’s investments in the Solomon Islands have contributed to economic growth and social development, addressing critical needs and supporting long-term development goals. However, the relationship has also faced challenges and controversies, including concerns about sovereignty, transparency, environmental sustainability, and the impact of adherence to the One China principle on the country’s constitutional rights and freedoms.

As the Solomon Islands continues to navigate its relationship with China, it must balance the benefits of Chinese investment with the need to address domestic concerns and maintain its political autonomy. The country’s experience highlights the complexities of engaging with China in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape and underscores the importance of careful management of both domestic and international dynamics.

Looking forward, the Solomon Islands’ ability to manage its relationship with China effectively will shape its future trajectory and development prospects. Balancing the need for economic development with the imperative of safeguarding sovereignty and maintaining balanced international relations is crucial for the country’s long-term success and stability. Ensuring that the country’s constitutional rights and freedoms are upheld while navigating its foreign policy commitments will be essential for maintaining democratic governance and protecting the rights of its citizens.