Embattled Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has sought to justify a contentious security deal with Beijing, saying his government did not react “hysterically” to the AUKUS deal when it was announced.
Solomons Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has faced scrutiny and pressure over a security pact with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that could lead to troops and weapons being stationed in the region.
Speaking in the Solomon Islands Parliament, Sogavare delivered another fiery address in defence of the agreement, accusing Australia of not notifying him of the AUKUS trilateral agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom.
The deal was unveiled in a surprise announcement and will see Australia armed with nuclear-powered submarines in response to a more aggressive Beijing.
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