UN General Assembly
2022

The right to establish diplomatic relations between sovereign nations is a universal principle shared by all members of the United Nations. Solomon Islands has been unfairly targeted since it formalized diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China just over three years ago. We have been subjected to a barrage of unwarranted and misplaced criticisms, misinformation and intimidation that threaten our democracy and sovereignty. Solomon Islands has been vilified in the media since formalizing its relationship with China. That decision was reached through democratic processes by a democratically elected Government. Our decision to establish a relationship with the People’s Republic of China is consistent with resolution 2758 (XXVI), observed by most of the countries in the Assembly, and which also articulates the One China policy that Solomon Islands respects. I reiterate the call for all to respect our sovereignty and democracy.