New Zealand, U.S. reiterate concern over China-Solomon Islands security deal
U.S. President Joe Biden and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern smile as the press exit the room after they both made a few public remarks during a meeting in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, U.S., May 31, 2022. REUTERS/Leah Millis Purchase Licensing Rights
WASHINGTON, May 31 (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Tuesday raised concerns about a security agreement between China and the Solomon Islands, the White House said.
"The United States and New Zealand share a concern that the establishment of a persistent military presence in the Pacific by a state that does not share our values or security interests would fundamentally alter the strategic balance of the region and pose national-security concerns to both our countries," the White House said in a statement.
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Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington
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