Pacific Islands leaders kick off summit clouded by China tensions | International

HONIARA, Sept 10, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Pacific Islands leaders opened an influential summit in the Solomons on Wednesday, with nations split over China's growing role in the region and alleged meddling in the meeting. Alongside its 18 member states including key players Australia and New Zealand, gatherings of the Pacific Islands Forum are typically attended by dozens more countries as observers or dialogue partners. But this year's host, close China ally the Solomon Islands, has barred most of those partners from attending -- sparking accusations that Honiara was working at Beijing's behest to exclude long-time participant Taiwan. The move prompted condemnation from fellow Pacific nations, of which three -- Marshall Islands, Palau, Tuvalu -- still recognise Taipei. China counts the...