Solomons PM says no regional risk in China security deal

By ROD McGUIRK
Associated Press

CANBERRA, Australa (AP) — Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has rejected concerns that regional saftey would be jeopardized by a security treaty between the South Pacific island nation and China. The United States, Australia and New Zealand are among the nations that have voiced concerns over a leaked draft of the bilateral agreement. Sogavare told his national parliament on Tuesday that negotiations have concluded but the treaty has not yet been signed. A document leaked last week indicates that China could boost its military presence in the Solomons, including with visits by warships. Sogavare said the leaked document was a draft. He would not reveal details of the final document.