While the world was focused on the largest nation's invasion of its neighbor, a tiny island nation caused a tectonic shift in the Pacific region's balance.
Reports that the Solomon Islands was close to finalizing a security treaty with China raised the alarm. Interestingly, the news was based on leaked documents and not official communiqués. Since then, Honiara has confirmed the reports.
The Republic
The small island nation is situated in the Pacific Ocean and lies 1,240 miles northeast of Australia. After achieving independence from the British in 1978, the republic has been a member of the Commonwealth. With a population of about 800,000, the island has a constitutional monarchy with one legislative house.
