China sends anti-riot gear and police advisers to Solomon Islands to help restore order
- After civil unrest in Solomons last month, China’s foreign ministry says Beijing is responding to Honiara’s request for help
- China is sending shields, helmets, batons and other non-lethal gear to help Pacific nation police confront ‘future threats’, says Solomons government
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Thursday the equipment and personnel were offered at Solomons’ request and would “soon arrive” to enhance the ability of its police.
“China firmly supports the government of Solomon Islands in defending the country’s stability and resolutely safeguards the relations between China and Solomon Islands,” he told reporters.
The unrest in the Solomons, with a population of about 680,000, broke out in late November when Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare was accused of using money from a national development fund that comes from China. Sogavare has rejected allegations of corruption.
While China said it was asked by the Solomons to send help, a statement by the Solomon Island government said it was accepting China’s offer to help.
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The Pacific nation said in a statement on Thursday that its government “is mindful of the urgent need to strengthen Royal Solomon Islands Police Force capability and capacity to respond to future unrest”.