Solomon Islands and Vanuatu Skip Biden's Pacific Summit as China Deepens Ties in Region

Solomon Islands PM Sogavare will not attend Biden's Pacific Islands summit next week, disappointing the White House. Sogavare recently praised China's development cooperation.
Sogavare reached an understanding with Xi that Solomon Islands will develop through China's BRI and security initiatives.
Timor Leste and China upgraded bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, potentially increasing Beijing's influence.
Timor Leste agreed to cooperate within the BRI for investment in infrastructure. The countries agreed on military cooperation and investment expansion.
Vanuatu's PM also will not attend Biden's summit due to a parliamentary no-confidence vote at home. Solomon Islands' foreign minister will attend instead.

Solomon Islands PM Sogavare will not attend Biden's Pacific Islands summit next week, disappointing the White House. Sogavare recently praised China's development cooperation.
Sogavare reached an understanding with Xi that Solomon Islands will develop through China's BRI and security initiatives.
Timor Leste and China upgraded bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, potentially increasing Beijing's influence.
Timor Leste agreed to cooperate within the BRI for investment in infrastructure. The countries agreed on military cooperation and investment expansion.
Vanuatu's PM also will not attend Biden's summit due to a parliamentary no-confidence vote at home. Solomon Islands' foreign minister will attend instead.