Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says his country will not invite dialogue partners, including the US, China, and Taiwan, to the Pacific Islands Forum, citing an incomplete review of relationships with donors.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says his government will not invite 21 donor countries—including the United States, China, and Taiwan—to the Pacific Islands Forum meeting in September.
The Solomon Islands, which switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 2019, has faced criticism over Beijing’s alleged influence. Manele told parliament the decision was due to an incomplete review of each country’s relationship with the Pacific, adding, “No dialogue partners will be invited.”
Three forum members still recognize Taiwan and raised concerns over exclusion. Opposition MP Peter Kenilorea Jr. called it “a massive missed opportunity” and said, “We know this issue is all about China and Taiwan.”
Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine also accused China of “interference” in last year’s forum communiqué.
While multilateral groups like the World Bank will attend, key powers—US, China, Taiwan—remain shut out. Kenilorea warned this could deepen divisions, as “China will likely meet leaders on the sidelines.”
The forum’s foreign ministers will meet in Fiji next week.