Canberra | Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele has secured the support of politicians to become the nation’s new prime minister, reinforcing China’s influence in the Pacific country even after the departure of pro-Beijing leader Manasseh Sogavare.
Mr Manele, who has pledged to continue this close relationship with China, won 31 votes in Thursday’s parliamentary contest of newly elected MPs, defeating Opposition Leader Matthew Wale, who secured 18 votes.
