Mr Sogavare told parliament that vessels from Australia would be exempt due to its participation in a treaty.
Reuters: Solomon Islands says Australia, NZ exempt from navy ship moratorium
SYDNEY (Reuters) - Navy vessels from Australia and New Zealand will be exempt from a temporary ban on foreign ships entering the ports of the Solomon Islands, the Pacific island nation's prime minister told parliament on Monday.
Foreign military vessels responding to a request for assistance from the Solomon Islands government would also be exempt, Prime Minister Manesseh Sogavare said.
The Solomon Islands signed a security pact with China in April, which a leaked draft said allows the Chinese navy to replenish in Honiara, prompting concern from the United States, Australia and New Zealand about China's growing influence.
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Update #1: Solomon Islands Exempts Navy Vessels From Australia and New Zealand (Solomon Times)
Update #2: Solomon Islands Exempt Australia - New Zealand from Foreign Naval Ban (Maritime Executive)
WNU Editor: Both Australia and New Zealand give millions in aid to the Solomon Islands .... Australia’s aid program in Solomon Islands continues to grow. It will be foolish for the Solomon Islands to jeopardize this.
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