The annual Pacific Islands Forum which is being hosted in Palau this year, has been rocked by drama before Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has even arrived at the summit.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister, and known China critic, Matthew Wale has been forced to fly home because of a shock leadership challenge.
Wale’s Coalition in the Solomon’s has been shaken after Home Affairs Minister Manasseh Maelanga announced he’d filed a no confidence motion.
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Maelanga has accused Wale of “repeatedly making decisions on matters of national importance without proper consultation or the approval of Cabinet”.
Two of Wales’ political allies, Peter Kenilorea Junior and Rick Hou, will now represent the Solomon Islands at the Pacific Islands Forum this week.
Tensions with China and the region are expected to loom over the week-long conference.
Beijing launched a missile over the Pacific early this year, and Palau has invited Taiwan’s diplomats to observer the Forum.
Palau is one of only 12 countries to give formal diplomatic recognition to Taiwan, and also has close relations with the United States.
Australia to play key role
Anthony Albanese says Australia must play a key role in our neighbouring region.
The Prime Minister is due to fly into Palau on Monday night, this will be the Prime Minister’s first official visit to Palau and his fifth PIF Leaders’ Meeting.
He will be joined by the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, and the Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy.
It follows what has been a successful year of Pacific diplomacy for Australia.
PNG and Fiji have signed up to military alliances with Canberra, and the Albanese Government is working on additional treaties with Tonga and the Solomon Islands.
“Australia is a proud member of the Pacific family, and investing in the security and prosperity of our Pacific neighbours makes our region safer and our economy stronger,” Albanese said.
“Our engagement in the Pacific Islands Forum and our contributions to the infrastructure, regional security and climate action of the region matter more than ever before.
“The big challenges facing the Pacific require solutions designed and delivered for the Pacific, by the Pacific. And Australia has a key role to play — as a partner and leader.
“I thank President Surangel Whipps Jr for hosting the 55th Pacific Islands Forum.
“The Forum is critically important for securing the future peace and prosperity of the region.”
