Four Corners: Aug 1

On Monday’s Four Corners “Pacific Capture” investigates the extent of Chinese influence and control in the strategically located Pacific nation.

Reporter Angus Grigg travels to the Solomon Islands to reveal new details about the Chinese money being used by Prime Minister Sogavare to secure his hold over the country.

“Reporter: Do you think this money helps the Prime Minister stay in power? 

Solomon Islands MP: Well, he’s stayed in power, hasn’t he?”

The signing of a new security deal between the Solomon Islands and China has raised foreign policy concerns in Australia and the United States. There are also concerns amongst Solomon Islanders the deal will lead to the establishment of a military base.

“To suggest that we should have another country coming in here as a security partner, to even suggest the idea of having to build a military base, who are we building a military base for? Who are our enemies?” Solomon Islands MP

The program will also examine other key industries in the Solomon Islands where Chinese state-owned companies are taking over to the detriment of local communities.

“It is not at all good for Solomon Islands… it destroys the social fabric of every community. Brothers are fighting against brothers. Communities are no longer talking to each other.” Former Cabinet secretary.

Monday 1st August at 8.30pm on ABC.