Manasseh Sogavare Unleashes On Solomon Islands Government Over US AgreementJohnny Blades RNZ Pacific senior journalistThe US Shiprider Agreement signed by the new-look Solomon Islands government has been subject to fiery criticism in parliament. These relations had been tested after Solomon Islands in 2019 ditched its longstanding diplomatic recognition of Taiwan in order to forge close links with China. "This is settled policy for the Solomon Islands government, and it will be honoured with the same consistency we bring to all our friendships. Status of Forces"Under that old agreement, United States forces present under authorised duties are exempt from Solomon Islands passport and visa requirement. "A certificate of a United States commander is sufficient proof that the conduct occurred in the in the in the course of official duty, subject only to review inside United States military chain of command."