New Zealand's deputy prime minister says his government will leave it to Solomon Islands to decide whether it should continue diplomatic relations with Taiwan or switch to China.
The Solomons' government is currently reassessing its decades long diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.
China's growing influence in the Pacific region is an increasing concern for the US and its western allies.
The Solomon Islands government says visiting delegations from Australia and New Zealand this week have pointed out some of the issues China's existing allies are experiencing including massive debts.
They say they are also wary of the geopolitical and security implications for the Pacific that a change in ties would bring.
From left to right front row: Aupito William Sio, Winston Peters, Manasseh Sogavare, Jeremiah Manele. Photo: Solomons PMO media
But New Zealand's deputy prime minister Winston Peters, who departs Solomon Islands for Vanuatu today, says his government is not exerting any pressure on the Solomons in this regard.
"It's up to the Solomon Islands government and its people. We would hope that they would make a decision in the long term interests of their values and Pacific values, and that's the crunch," Winston Peters.
Winston Peters comments come in the same week he expressed concern regarding China's treatment of Tiananmen Square protestors 30 years ago.
Mr Peters reflected on Tuesday's anniversary of the deadly crackdown by troops.
He said one had to be concerned about the fact that over 10,000 people died 30 years ago, even now.
He said if people let those things slide without a comment, it doesn't speak very well of their values.
Mr Peters said the comments were his own personal opinion.
Australia and New Zealand officially recognise China over Taiwan.
