The Solomon Islands has suspended visits from western naval ships less than six months after signing a security pact with Beijing that raised fears that China would establish a military base there.
A US Coast Guard cutter, the Oliver Henry, received no response when it requested permission to refuel in the Pacific nation a week ago.
Manasseh Sogavare, prime minister of the Solomons, confirmed the suspension of visits. He said that HMS Spey, a British offshore patrol vessel on Indo-Pacific duties, had also aborted its planned visit because of “approval delays”.
Hope they enjoy the co-prosperity sphere.
