– PRC says “non-interference” remains core to China’s foreign policy

– Minister cites national unity and stability in decision to leave IPAC

– Government reaffirms commitment to One-China principle

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in Honiara has strongly denied allegations of political interference, following criticism from Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) over reported pressure on Minister for Rural Development, Daniel Suilea Waneoroa, linked to his previous affiliation with the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC).

TSI had condemned the PRC’s alleged demands as “unacceptable,” saying they threatened Solomon Islands’ sovereignty and risked fuelling political instability, following a Solomon Star report on May 9 that cited alleged conditions set by the Embassy for continued engagement with Waneoroa due to his IPAC links.

In response, a statement from the Chinese Embassy issued last night described the claims as “baseless allegations,” asserting that non-interference is a “basic principle of China’s foreign policy.”

“China will never interfere in Solomon Islands’ internal affairs and also firmly opposes any other countries’ interference in Solomon Islands’ internal affairs,” the Embassy said.

The statement also reaffirmed China’s support for Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele’s leadership, expressing confidence in the GNUT government’s stability and future cooperation.

It also praised Solomon Islands’ ongoing commitment to the One-China policy, referencing the July 2024 Joint Statement issued during PM Manele’s official visit to Beijing.

The unfolding situation comes as Minister Waneoroa formally resigned from IPAC, an international group of lawmakers advocating for a more critical stance on China.

Responding to queries from Island Sun last night, Minister Waneoroa said that the decision he took was based on national progress and political stability.

“In a bold step toward aligning with the shared vision for national progress, I decided to stand and made the numerical change to stabilize the GNUT leadership regime for a collective will of the people we served.

“Today, also stand to formally announce my resignation from the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC).

“I enclosed a letter revoking my membership as one of the co-chairpersons of IPAC on the 8th May 2025.

“This decision reflects my personal conviction and unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, transparency and accountability,” he said.

While acknowledged the time he had with IPAC, he highlighted the evolving political landscape is a call for decisive and responsible leadership.

Waneoroa said that aligning himself with GNUT is more than just policies but – it is about a shared vision for a more just, equitable and prosperous future.

“As a party wing leader of Umi Fo Change (U4C) political party, elected representative of the people of North Malaita constituency and the Minister for Rural Development, I’m building the bridge forging with GNUT Coalition parties in transforming our beloved nation.

“I am confident that together, we can forge a path forward that truly represents the aspirations of all citizens of Solomon Islands.

“I express my gratitude to everyone who has been part of my journey this far. I will remain committed to working collaboratively with all bilateral development partners and stakeholders by fostering collective growth and to create the kind of positive change our country needs,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Government in a statement welcomes the Minister’s renewed focus on unity and collaboration, and remains committed to inclusive leadership that serves the best interests of all Solomon Islanders.

“GNUT is committed to the One China principle and recognizes that Taiwan is an inalienable part of People’s Republic of China.” The statement said.

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