SYDNEY: A former leader who supported ties with Taiwan and a China critic have won key roles in the new Solomon Islands government, signalling change for the South Pacific’s closest backer of Beijing.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale was elected on Friday by lawmakers after his predecessor was ousted in a no confidence vote.
Changes of leader in the strategically located archipelago, 1,600 kilometers (990 miles) northeast of Australia, are closely watched by Western diplomats.
China and US-ally Australia are the largest donors and security partners to the Solomons, competing for influence.
Wale appointed former prime minister Rick Hou as foreign minister, and Peter Kenilorea as the minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, dealing closely with donor countries.
