Chinese ancient and traditional core values should be put to helping the development of the Solomon Islands.
I read that sections of Solomon Islands society, especially in Malaita and those closely connected with livestock production, such as pig farming, are understandably expressing concerns over the SIG’s switch in diplomatic relations with China.
I, as an outsider, have no words to offer other than to say the switch over in diplomatic ties from Taiwan to the Chinese government will need time to assess how the change reassure those currently expressing doubts.
One must hold China to account for implementing the traditional core values of its ancient culture to benefitting all sectors in the Solomon Islands
If we look at those values, they include benevolence, righteousness and rites with equality. It is hoped that China in forging its new relationship with the Solomon Islands will shape its traditional values into norms of fairness, justice and civility in bringing development to the people of the Solomon Islands, developments still awaited 41 years after attaining independence.
In some developing countries, including those having relations with China close to the Solomon Islands, such as Tonga, Samoa, Vanuatu, Fiji and Papua New Guinea the Chinese has already demonstrated the ability to improve infrastructure and improve living standards. Some in those developing counties have expressed admiration of China’s policy of setting national priorities that will see better prospects in the future.
The danger, as I see it, however, is the possibility that some might be tempted to consider non-democratic forms of administration because change is seen as evident and not hampered by the game of musical chairs and weak governments that have so often been the situation in past years.
Two years ago, the Chinese government announced its plan to increase soft power significantly by 2035, publicly stating that China’s modernisation, offered a new option for other countries and nations wanting to speed up their development while preserving their independence; and it offered Chinese wisdom and a Chinese approach to solving the problems facing mankind’.
As far as the Solomon Islands is concerned it will be a case of wait and see, and the SIG will need to be watchful that China is genuine in wanting to aid the Solomons and not merely to advance its form of ideology and exert more influence throughout the Pacific.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
