NEWCASTLE, Australia (AP) — Australia’s deputy prime minister pledged support to the Solomon Islands during a visit to the archipelago nation on Tuesday, as Canberra intensifies efforts to counter China’s growing influence in the South Pacific. Richard Marles’ trip to the capital, Honiara, was the first by an Australian government minister since Jeremiah Manele was elected Solomon Islands’ new prime minister earlier this month. Marles pledged to provide healthcare and border control support to the island nation and said at a news conference his visit provided an opportunity to discuss Solomons’ “priorities and the way in which Australia can help and contribute.” “Australia sought to be the Solomons’ go-to security partner and had to work to earn that right. Hence, going to Solomon Islands quickly,” said Marles, who is also Australia’s defense minister. |
India's election commission directs political parties not to involve children in campaigningWestfield Bondi Junction incident live updates: Heartbreak as mother of nineTriston Casas hits 2WHO warns of persistent threats from COVIDBiden touts progress on economy, immigration despite wide disapprovalTanzania to host East African petroleum conference 2025Martínez, Lassiter rally Montreal to 2UN highlights urgent need for investment in women's economic empowermentMother in law of missing Kansas mom and friend arrested in huge Oklahoma SWAT raidArab states condemn U.S. for vetoing UNSC resolution on Gaza ceasefire