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Beijing condemns Solomon Islands violence and attacks on Chinese businesses
- Chinese foreign ministry also voices support for South Pacific nation’s decision to switch diplomatic ties from Taipei
- Public concerns have grown over Beijing’s influence in the Solomons economy, analyst says
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Beijing has offered its support to troubled Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and condemned violence in the capital.
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The assurances came as protesters in Honiara continued to demand Sogavare’s resignation and the Chinese embassy warned its nationals not to go outside.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Friday that China condemned the violence that had caused severe damage and property losses and Beijing would “safeguard the safety and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and institutions”.
“The establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the Solomon Islands conforms to the trend of the times and is a correct choice that can stand the test of history,” Zhao said, referring to the decision of the administration to switch diplomatic ties from Taipei two years ago.
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Solomon Islands riot sets Chinatown ablaze in capital Honiara as protests turn violent
Solomon Islands riot sets Chinatown ablaze in capital Honiara as protests turn violent
Protests in the Solomons, with a population of about 680,000, started on Wednesday as people gathered in Honiara, accusing Sogavare of corruption.
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