China’s security deal with Solomons raises alarm in Pacific

By NICK PERRY and DAVID RISING
Associated Press

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — A security alliance between China and the Solomon Islands has sent shudders throughout the South Pacific, with many worried it could set off a large-scale military buildup or that Western animosity to the deal could play into China’s hands. What remains most unclear is the extent of China’s ambitions. A Chinese military presence in the Solomons would put it not only on the doorstep of Australia and New Zealand but also in close proximity to Guam, with its massive U.S. military bases. China operates just one acknowledged foreign military base, in the African nation of Djibouti, but many believe China’s military is busy establishing an overseas military network.