THE People’s Republic of China (PRC) has rejected media reports that a certain politician from Malaita Province was offered bribes in order to support the switch of allegiance by Solomon Islands to China in 2019.
A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Honiara described the allegations as “defamatory and fabricated”, saying Solomon Islands and China relations are based on the One China Principle.
“One China principle is universally recognized norm of international relations and broad consensus by international society. Any attempts to smear China and disrupt China-Solomon Islands’ relations are futile and doomed to failure,” the spokesman said in a short statement last night..
“Such allegations are defamatory and fabricated from nowhere. In September 2019, China and Solomon Islands established diplomatic relationships on the basis of One China principle. The bilateral cooperation between the two countries has since delivered fruitful outcomes in various areas, bringing tangible benefits to Solomon Islands people and received warm welcome.
“China firmly opposes any official contacts in any form between Taiwan and any officials from countries having diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. Any responsible politicians should recognize mainstream trends, stand on the right side of history and avoid being politically manipulated by anti-China forces,” the spokesman said.
Malaita Premier Daniel Suidani who has been receiving free medical treatment in Taipei at the expense of Taiwanese taxpayers claimed he was offered bribes to support Solomon Islands decision to switch diplomatic relations to China from Taiwan.
But observers said last night Mr. Suidani’s claim is a little hard to believe given that politician and money are inseparable in Solomon Islands.
