The Foreign Affairs Minister of New Zealand, Winston Peters, is visiting Solomon Islands and will meet with the newly elected Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele. Peters’ visit follows the shift of Solomon Islands’ allegiance from Taiwan to China in 2019, a significant point of Pacific politics. Since taking up his new role in May, Manele has welcomed several delegations from various nations, including Australia, the US, China, and Japan.
Associate professor Tarcisius Kabutaulaka at the University of Hawaii’s Center for Pacific Islands Studies suggests that these visits may be more than diplomatic courtesy; they are likely driven by the geopolitical competition that has surfaced since the allegiance shift. He believes that the diplomatic relationship between the Solomon Islands and China will remain unchanged under Manele, but the scrupulousness in interactions with other nations will increase. Peters’ subsequent trips include visits to Nauru and Niue.
In his statement, Peters underlined that New Zealand regards its Pacific relationships as fundamental to its foreign policy and is committed to strengthening them further. The delegation led by Peters includes officials from various political sectors, encompassing opposition members as well. They will also engage with regional issues including the ongoing unrest in New Caledonia. In Nauru, Peters will meet with President Adeang and foreign minister Aingimea. The visit is also focused on acknowledging Niue’s 50 years of Free Association with New Zealand, marked by a $20 million investment in the country.