The Pacific Way betrayed: Why Taiwan still matters to Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands has formally erased Taiwan from its immigration privileges. And it has done so just weeks before we host the Pacific Islands Forum, the region's most important political gathering of island nations.

- CELSUS TALIFILU

In June 2025, the Solomon Islands Government quietly removed Taiwan (Republic of China, ROC) from its list of countries eligible for concessional entry. On paper, it looked like a technical immigration decision. In reality, it was a diplomatic rupture, a deeply political act that reaffirms the country's growing alignment with the People's Republic of China (PRC), and more worryingly, a departure from the principles of regional solidarity and sovereign friendship that have long defined the Pacific way.

For those of us who remember Taiwan's contributions to our nation, not from history books but lived experience, this decision is more than disappointing. It is a betrayal.

A FRIENDSHIP WE SHOULD NOT FORGET Taiwan was among the first to extend a hand to Solomon Islands after independence. For decades, it remained a consistent and people-centered partner. Its doctors served in our rural clinics. Its scholarships educated our children. Its agricultural specialists walked alongside our farmers. Taiwan gave generously and respectfully, without fanfare and without forcing its political weight on our internal affairs.

During political instability and budget crises, Taiwan offered real support—not just press releases. When ministries were broke and trust in government was low, Taiwan was one of the few development partners that provided direct and flexible budgetary assistance. In the realm of development cooperation, Taiwan proved what true friendship looked like.

Yet today, Solomon Islands has formally erased Taiwan from its immigration privileges. And it has done so just weeks before we host the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), the region's most important political gathering of island nations.