Solomon Islands CODEL as CCP Influence in the Nation Grows

Solomon Islands: Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL) of the US House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party and Rep. Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-American Samoa) traveled to Solomon Islands, meeting with Solomon officials and community leaders earlier this week. Reps. Dunn and Radewagen also visited Guadalcanal, laying wreaths at the American War Memorial to honor the service and sacrifice of those who fought to secure freedom in the 20th century, as growing CCP aggression threatens to undermine peace in the 21st century.

“As the Chinese Communist Party seeks to export its influence across the globe, Solomon Islands cannot be overlooked." Chairman Mike Gallagher (R-WI) said of the lawmakers' trip. "The same geographic logic that etched places like Guadalcanal into the American memory still holds true today. We must work with our traditional friends in Solomon Islands to protect our common values and ensure peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific."

“Like a viper slithering around its prey, the CCP is coiling around Solomon Islands in hopes of tightening their grip on the Indo-Pacific region. This is very similar to the power plays Imperial Japan made leading up to WWII. Standing at the war memorial at Guadalcanal reminded me how imperative it is that we rein in the CCP before history repeats itself. We must preserve our relationships with our friends in Solomon Islands to ensure the Indo-Pacific remains stable and peaceful,” Congressman Dunn said.

“Solomon Islands were strategically important in World War II, for the generations since, and certainly still today. It was a special honor to help lay a wreath at the Guadalcanal American Memorial and think of these heroes who left us a legacy of freedom that we cannot fail to uphold,” said Congresswoman Amata. “My father, the late Peter Tali Coleman, served in these waters and islands as a young US Army officer in support of the Coastwatchers, who reported on enemy activity at great risk to their lives. Dad told us about serving aboard the USS Echo, a US Navy schooner assigned to the US Army, which took Coastwatchers to and from their stations. Now, 81 years later, we must remain strongly committed to the Pacific region and keep working with Solomon Islands to preserve peace and security."

Read more about additional highlights from their trip below.