Solomon Islands

Australia and Fiji signed a mutual defense pact called the Ocean of Peace alliance, elevating Fiji to one of Australia’s few treaty allies and binding both nations to mutual defense. The move aims to counter China’s growing influence in the Pacific, following China’s 2022 security pact with the Solomon Islands.

Australian police discovered 2.7 metric tons of cocaine buried in underground bunkers on a property in Sydney's outskirts, marking the country's largest-ever cocaine seizure. Two men were arrested and face life imprisonment, while the drug's street value is estimated at 816 million Australian dollars. The shipment is linked to a Belize-flagged cargo ship suspected of smuggling drugs to Queensland.

The new prime minister of Solomon Islands has announced that the country will review its secretive security treaty with China.

Solomon Islands' new Prime Minister Matthew Wale announced a review of the country's 2022 security treaty with China, which raised concerns about a potential Chinese military base in the region. Wale is visiting Australia to negotiate a new comprehensive strategic agreement and reset bilateral ties, while emphasizing regional security cooperation.

Matthew Wale was sworn in as Solomon Islands prime minister after winning 26 of 50 parliamentary votes, replacing Jeremiah Manele who was ousted in a no-confidence vote. Experts suggest Wale's leadership represents a diplomatic shift toward Australia and away from China's sphere of influence, though moderate engagement with Beijing is expected to continue.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has been ousted in a no-confidence vote, ending months of political uncertainty in the country. A new leader will be elected after parliament was adjourned to allow arrangements for the election. The Solomon Islands are a key partner for China in the Pacific.

The Solomon Islands faces a political crisis as 19 parliament members defected from Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele's coalition in March, creating an opposition majority. Despite the crisis, experts predict China-Solomon Islands relations will remain unchanged, as Manele maintains his pro-Beijing stance similar to his predecessor.

An illegal card game called Pass is gaining popularity in Honiara, Solomon Islands, with participants risking significant losses. The game is played in smoky, hidden shelters, often attracting locals like Irene, a teacher, who visit after work for the chance of a big payout.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila, with peak winds of 115mph, caused widespread destruction in the Solomon Islands, displacing 120 people and affecting 73,000. Concurrently, Vietnam experienced soaring temperatures while South Korea faced torrential rain.

Australia and Solomon Islands have agreed to strengthen their relationship through a strategic treaty. The move aims to enhance bilateral ties and cooperation.