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Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has confirmed that the contents of the controversial security pact with China, signed in 2022, will remain secret. Speaking in the capital Honiara on Wednesday, Wale cited a legally binding non-disclosure clause in the agreement, which was entered into by the previous government under his predecessor Manasseh Sogavare.

"Unfortunately, the China Security Agreement includes a non-disclosure provision," Wale told reporters, as reported by AFP and the ABC. "It is legally binding and was entered into by the previous government. We are unable to disclose its contents."

The pact, which alarmed Washington and Canberra when it was revealed, raised fears of a permanent Chinese military presence in the South Pacific. Wale, who took office in May, had previously called for the agreement to be made public while in opposition.

Coverage Comparison

Reports from AFP (carried by The Hindu) and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) both confirm the core facts: the pact contains a non-disclosure clause, Wale cannot legally release it, and the agreement was signed under Sogavare, widely seen as Beijing's staunchest ally in the region.

Both sources also note the geopolitical sensitivity of the deal. AFP emphasizes that the pact "rattled Washington and Canberra," while ABC highlights Wale's comparison of a future treaty with Australia to the Falepili Union with Tuvalu and the Nakamal Agreement with Vanuatu. The ABC also reports Wale's desire to secure visa-free access for Solomon Islands citizens in negotiations with Australia.

While both outlets quote Wale directly, The Hindu's framing uses terms like "secretive" and "controversial," and attributes comments indirectly, whereas the ABC provides more detailed context, including leaked draft language of the non-disclosure clause.

Key Claims

  • Non-disclosure clause prevents publication: Multiple sources confirm that the security pact includes a non-disclosure provision that legally binds the government. Wale says he cannot break it, despite his earlier promises to release the document.
  • Agreement was signed in 2022: Both AFP and ABC report that the pact was signed in 2022 under the government of Manasseh Sogavare.
  • New treaty with Australia to be negotiated: Wale announced that negotiations on a new treaty with Australia will begin, comparing it to existing agreements with Tuvalu and Vanuatu. This is a claim carried by the ABC.
  • China remains a friend but stability is key: Wale stated that China remains a good friend and partner, but that the Solomon Islands will not be a source of regional instability. This remark is included in ABC's report.

Perspectives

Government of Solomon Islands: Prime Minister Wale presents the non-disclosure as a legal constraint inherited from the previous government. He emphasizes that his government is acting responsibly and seeking to improve relations with Australia and New Zealand.

International observers (e.g., Australia, US): The security pact has been viewed with concern due to potential Chinese military access. Wale's announcement may be seen as an attempt to balance regional ties while maintaining legal commitments.

Previous Solomon Islands government: The Sogavare administration signed the pact and included the non-disclosure clause. Its terms may reflect a deliberate effort to shield details from public scrutiny, as suggested by a leaked draft.

Correction note: This article is based on reports from AFP and the ABC as of June 11, 2026.