FLIRTING WITH CHINA FOR ECONOMIC “BOOST”?
Dr. Tarcisius Kabutaulaka Last week’s Sarere Tok Stori on the proposed switch in diplomatic relation from Taiwan to China engendered productive conversations. Commentators expressed both support and opposition to the proposal. Hon. Danny Phillip chimed in. That was valuable because it gave us an insight into some MPs’ thinking, their rationales and thoughts – or lack thereof – on the implications for Solomon Islands. Despite the letter allegedly written by 16 government MPs expressing support for Taiwan, it seems that many MPs favor recognizing Beijing. Here, we continue that conversation. First, it is important to repeat what was stated last week: China is a global power and Solomon Islands has and will continue to engage with it, whether or not there is diplomatic relation. Engagements with China could potentially benefit Solomon Islands, or it could create financial and other burdens. This depends on how Honiara manages the relationship. The