Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has pledged to “remain neutral” amid rising competition between China and the United States, as he makes his first visit to the country since striking a security deal that alarmed Australia and other Pacific neighbours.

Western analysts said Mr Sogavare would be feted in China during a trip due to start on Sunday, after signing the security pact. Concern over China’s naval ambitions in the strategically located region prompted Washington to strike a defence agreement with Papua New Guinea last month.

Reuters