The newly appointed Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands is set to travel to Australia for discussions with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. This meeting comes amid hopes that the leader, previously known for his critical stance on China, will place a stronger emphasis on strengthening ties with Canberra over Beijing.
Prime Minister Albanese is scheduled to welcome Matthew Wale at the Parliament House on June 3 for a leaders’ summit.
Wale, who took office earlier this month following the ousting of his predecessor in a no-confidence vote, will be accompanied by a delegation of cabinet ministers during his visit.
Key topics on the agenda are expected to include economic development and security cooperation.
“Prime Minister Wale’s choice to visit Australia on his first official international trip underscores the significance of the relationship between our countries,” Albanese remarked.
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“Despite the global challenges we confront, we recognise we are stronger facing these together as partners.”
Wale has been critical of a deal signed between the Solomon Islands and China, which was agreed upon in 2022 and sparked concerns from Australia.
The policing and military deal would impact security in the region and put relationships with other allies at risk, he warned at the time.
He has since softened his stance, leading a delegation to Beijing and offering support to the nation’s ‘One China’ foreign policy position.
Australia has signalled it is willing to upgrade security ties with the Solomon Islands, if Wale is prepared to do so.
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