Free education in $1b sweetener for Solomons treaty

Australia and the Solomon Islands are reportedly close to finalizing a new security treaty, with Canberra committing nearly $1 billion in aid. The proposed spending includes free education, security improvements, and small grants tied to each electorate. The details emerged from a leaked WhatsApp message from Solomon Islands Deputy Prime Minister Francis Sade, who forwarded an update from the Australian high commission to the Pacific nation.

The messages, verified by Sade, reveal that Australia plans to allocate $142 million for free education, $48 million for visa improvements and security requests, and $95 million in grants. The grants are distributed per electorate through a community partnerships fund, allowing locals to apply for Australian aid to build small-scale infrastructure.

This approach is expected to encourage support for the security treaty from each Solomon Islands MP. The Australian government aims to enhance regional security cooperation with the Pacific nation as it competes with China for influence in the area. Australia has already established defense treaties with Papua New Guinea and Fiji, and is currently negotiating a fresh pact with Tonga.

The progress in strengthening ties with Honiara had been slow under previous leaders but accelerated since Mr. Wale's leadership took office in May. However, some in Solomon Islands argue that Australia is using this aid to buy political support, a claim Sade denies, stating that the messages were merely a routine update and not intended for political expediency.