The Peoples Republic of China (PRC) Ambassador to Solomon Islands Li Ming says they are firmly opposed to any geopolitical games as his country gifted 20 vehicles, 30 motor cycles and two water cannon vehicles to the police on Friday.
China’s heavy engagement in the security space has come under severe scrutiny in the media locally and regionally.
But speaking on Friday, Ambassador Ming said: “China does not have any intention to compete with any other countries, nor interfere in any other countries’ domestic affairs, and we are firmly opposed to any geopolitical games.”
He said the policing cooperation between China and Solomon Islands is in the interests of the two countries, and benefits the region as a whole for safety, security and sovereignty of Solomon Islands and its people are top priorities of China-SI policing cooperation.
Ming said since the establishment of diplomatic relationship between China and SI three years ago, the two countries have maintained high level cooperation based on mutual respect and equality.
“As a response to the emergency request from the Government of SI after the riot in November 2021, China sent China Police Liaison team to SI to assist RSIPF in enhancing its capability of public management and professional training,” he said.
The ambassador said after the arrival, the CPLT has committed themselves to the principles of “professionalism, efficiency, inclusiveness, transparency, friendship”.
He said the policing cooperation are fruitful in many areas including professional training and equipment assistance.
Ming said more than 350 RSIPF officers from Rove Headquarters, Central Province, Isabel Province have benefited from CPLT training courses.
He added that a team of 32 RSIPF officers is now visiting China adding it is the first and biggest delegation ever from RSIPF to China.