Reuters, SYDNEYAustralian Prime Minister Scott Morrison arrived in the Solomon Islands yesterday, the first visit by an Australian leader in more than a decade as Western nations seek to rein in China’s influence in the Pacific. The Solomon Islands is one of six Pacific countries to recognize Taiwan, a policy now in question after recent elections. He did not make any public comments on arrival, but has said the visit will show Australia’s commitment to the region. Morrison’s trip comes just a few days before a visit to the Solomon Islands by New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters, who is also to travel to Vanuatu this week. Solomon Islands lawmaker Peter Kenilorea Jr said he wanted Australia to show “stronger leadership” on climate change, SBS News journalist Pablo Vinales said in a tweet yesterday.

Source: Taipei Times June 02, 2019 15:56 UTC