The head of the independent faction in the Solomon Islands has raised doubts about whether the country remains truly independent. According to a report by SIBC, Peter Kenilorea Jr responded to a government statement that accused him of breaching the one-China policy and undermining the Solomon Islands government’s ties with Beijing. This accusation came after Kenilorea attended the recent meeting of the Inter-parliamentary Alliance on China in Taiwan. Kenilorea clarified that he participated in the event in a personal capacity and criticized the government’s statement as misleading and unfortunate.
Previously, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele had issued a directive prohibiting government officials and public office holders in the Solomon Islands from visiting, engaging with, or making commitments to Taiwan. Kenilorea argued that the government should be championing and not limiting the constitutional freedoms of its citizens.
Peter Kenilorea Jnr. is a prominent and seasoned figure in Solomon Islands diplomacy, advocates for maintaining strong and balanced relations with both mainland China and Taiwan. He believes that, much like how countries such as New Zealand and Australia manage to maintain ties with both, Solomon Islands should also strive for a similar approach. Kenilorea Jnr sees this as a demonstration of mature diplomacy, emphasizing the importance of engaging with all parties for the mutual benefit of his country. He dismisses the idea of excluding one in favor of the other due to petty jealousy, instead highlighting the value of constructive engagement with both nations for the prosperity and stability of Solomon Islands. By adopting this inclusive approach, Kenilorea Jnr aims to pave the way for peaceful coexistence and fruitful collaboration in the region.
