'Disheartened to see that the election of the Prime Minister in the Solomon Islands has been overshadowed by concerns of potential violence. In ordinary times, we seldom need such a heavy security presence. A more inclusive approach to political decision-making is essential'

Sharing views on Bougainville's future can make you feel vulnerable - especially when differing from the masses.

I hope my piece on the The Lowy Institute's Interpreter makes us Bougainvilleans think pragmatically about how we decide to move forward.

lowyinstitute.org/the-interprete…

Still lots of political action to come before the PM vote on Thursday morning.

smh.com.au/politics/feder…

🇸🇧 As Thursday's PM election approaches, the CARE and United Party Coalition haven't revealed their candidate, despite a prior agreement—clearly still deciding on their nominee. In contrast, the OUR Party and its coalition have swiftly announced their candidate.

In the Solomon Islands, who ever gets elected has a lot of hard yards to do on economic recovery and human development. SI Central Bank Governor: population growth exceeds economic growth 'The country is at a crossroads' indepthsolomons.com.sb/solomons-econo…

Interested in the state of play in Solomon Islands? Jon Fraenkel takes a look at the numbers and the implications. '[The present system] gives the upper hand to less scrupulous would-be prime ministers who are prepared to make the necessary payoffs'.
lowyinstitute.org/the-interprete…

Eight women secure seats in joint elections  - In-depth Solomons indepthsolomons.com.sb/eight-women-se…

Chinese security presence in the Pacific comes into focus ahead of major political events    voanews.com/a/chinese-secu… In addition to the Solomon Islands..Tonga’s PM said he would be accepting Chinese security support in hosting the Pacific Islands Forum in August

Congrats to Bec Strating Joanne Wallis on another positive review of their new book that asks some of the big questions confronting Australia's maritime security. 'Girt by Sea has the potential to have a real impact on Australia’s understanding of its maritime environment.'

An insightful piece on PNG and china engagement by MICHAEL KABUNI - very timely with the current visit by Chinese FM Wang Yi.

As Solomon Islands’ election looms, China’s influence on the Pacific country draws scrutiny theguardian.com/world/2024/apr…

Good to read a PNG perspective on the vital role of the informal economy. Elizabeth Kopel once again provides valuable insights.

Good to hear my The Lowy Institute colleague Dr Meg Keen on RN discussing Solomon Islands’ upcoming election and how PM Sogavare’s China tilt will affect his chances at the ballot box.
abc.net.au/listen/program…

New Caledonia: Uncertainty and division intensifies as Paris imposes its will | Denise Fisher ift.tt/0ZIi2Bp

My latest Interpreter article discusses the implications of Nauru's recent MOU with Bank of China. It speaks to a broader issue: that financial risks are causing Western banks to flee the region, leaving a void for China to fill. lowyinstitute.org/the-interprete…

Compact of Free Association amendments (COFA) passed in Republic of Marshall Islands (27 Yes - 0 No). That means U.S., Palau, Federated States of Micronesia and Marshalls all passed. It's done.

Great, patient work from all concerned.

Now to implementation...

Valuable insights from Bernard Yegiora on PNG electricity sector and a need for development partners to change their approach : 'In short, Australia seems paralysed by the aid and trade business in PNG. China, however, is thriving.'

Security concerns over 118 Chinese nationals' illegal entries to Guam; Tenorio says feds 'underperforming' guampdn.com/news/security-… via Guam PDN

Some reflections on the importance on the next election in Solomon Islands from Oliver Nobetau and I to strengthening democracy and rebuilding public confidence in government 'cracks in the core pillars of democracy are widening' . lowyinstitute.org/the-interprete…

Tuvalu govt confirms it will ratify landmark security treaty with Australia abc.net.au/pacific/progra…