Matthew Wale, recently elected as Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, announced plans to review a controversial security agreement with China that has alarmed Australia and the United States. The pact, signed in 2022, could allow for a permanent Chinese military presence in the South Pacific. Wale, who stated he had not seen the agreement until shortly before his visit to Australia, emphasized the need for transparency in security matters. During discussions with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Wale expressed a desire to strengthen ties and reset the relationship with Australia, which has historically provided aid and security support. The two leaders agreed to pursue a comprehensive treaty, focusing on mutual trust and cooperation in policing and infrastructure financing. This comes as the Solomon Islands' debt to Chinese banks has increased significantly, raising concerns about Beijing's growing influence in the region. Wale's administration aims to explore partnerships with other regional countries to enhance security and reduce reliance on China.