Countering Beijing, Australia to Build $60 Million Maritime Base on the Solomons Islands

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese meets with the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Manasseh Sogavare in Canberra, Australia on Oct. 6, 2022. Martin Ollman/Getty Images

Canberra will build a maritime base for the Solomon Islands’ military to dock patrol ships it donated as part of Australia’s $60 million infrastructure investment plan.

The Department of Defence has signed a contract with private construction firm Reeves Icon and Hall for the establishment of two major infrastructure facilities in the Pacific island country.