Australian prime minister Scott Morrison will visit the Solomon Islands on Sunday in his first overseas trip since being re-elected, as his government joins other western nations in moving to challenge growing Chinese influence in the South Pacific.
“My first overseas visit following the election will be to a key member of our Pacific family, Solomon Islands, which is one of Australia’s nearest and most important neighbours,” said Mr Morrison in a statement.
“The Pacific is front and centre of Australia’s strategic outlook. I look forward to meeting with Prime Minister Sogavare as we set out a partnership of deeper engagement and build on the family and community bonds Australia shares with the Pacific.”