In the heart of the Solomon Islands, a battle for influence is being fought between China and Australia, with both nations vying to be the 'partner of choice' in the Pacific. This competition is not just about political or economic dominance, but also about winning the 'hearts and minds' of the local community. At a church hall on the outskirts of Honiara, a training session organized by the Chinese police was taking place, attended by dozens of community leaders, including Ben Angoa. Angoa, who has embraced the training and other Chinese-provided resources like solar lighting, sewing machines, soccer balls, and noodle-making lessons, expressed his admiration for China, saying, 'We really love China.'
The training sessions, along with the provision of blue uniforms, flashlights, and fleets of police cars, are part of Beijing's support for the Solomon Islands' policing. However, the effectiveness of these strategies is a matter of debate. Associate Prof Graeme Smith, a China and Pacific scholar at the Australian National University, notes that while Australia has focused on the police, China has concentrated on the communities the police serve. Australia's approach, he says, is through formal partnerships that exclude community leaders, while China's model mixes control with paternalism.
The competition for influence is not just about police cars, advisers, and community building. It's also about the 'battle for hearts and minds.' In Solomon Islands, political figures are divided on who is the favored partner, but most value the support in all its forms. While some, like Felix Bosokuru, believe China's efforts are working, others, like Peter Kenilorea Jr, worry about the geopolitical ramifications, which create rifts within the police force. Despite the differences, both countries offer similar support, including advisers, police cars, weapons, and training, but the approach and impact vary.
The question remains: who is winning this battle for influence? While some may argue that China is succeeding in winning the 'hearts and minds' of the community, others may point to Australia's more traditional approach and its long-standing presence in the region. The answer may lie in the eyes of the beholder, and the future of the Solomon Islands may depend on the outcome of this ongoing competition.
