Dr Transform Aqorau Photo: Solomon Islands National University
The head of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) believes that Pacific Island countries have the right to explore relationships with non-traditional partners.
Dr Transform Aqorau told delegates attending the two-day Pacific Islands Political Studies Association Conference in Wellington last week that for decades, the region has felt traditional development partners have not delivered enough tangible benefits.
"To be then held to ransom by the geo-strategic interest of a narrow and smaller grouping of countries is largely unfair on us as we seek to explore newer relationships and partnerships," he said.
"Why? Because the development needs of our people cannot always be met by our traditional donors."
Dr Transform Aqorau said Pacific Island governments have matured and have more choices to make regarding who they have partnerships with.
Addressing concerns about aid being used as a debt trap, the SINU vice-chancellor said that aid from all countries could be viewed as a debt trap.
Tonga, Vanuatu, and Samoa are spending some of the biggest sums in the world to repay debts to China as a proportion of its GDP.
Dr Aqorau said for the Solomon Islands, most of the money from China has come from grants, not loans.
"I think every aid to a country is potentially a debt trap because every aid that you get undermines your self reliance and undermines your independence."
He said it was more important for nations to be self-reliant than to rely on aid.
Beijing's support has benefited Solomon Islands, he added, noting that a large stadium and a new hospital came from China, not from traditional partners of the region.
"We now have a brand new building and facility that have been built by the Chinese," he said.
"So that's one thing that I do feel sincerely - that our leaders not just in Solomon Islands but across the Pacific, are looking for ways in which their people can be supported."
Dr Aqorau said that the hospital has the facilities to treat complex health issues, such as heart diseases and cancer.
