The Home Affairs Minister says the likelihood of China deploying troops to the Solomon Islands in the next year is increasingly likely. 

The South Pacific nation last week signed a controversial security pact with Beijing that has defence experts worried.

“I think it’s very likely that they will proceed down that path,” Karen Andrews told Neil Breen on the potential deployment of Chinese troops.

Neil Breen: “Likely? You think it’s likely?”

Karen Andrews: “Yes, I do. It’s likely that will be the path China will be taking in the Pacific region.

“The one thing we should be at least taking notice of and paying some attention to is the timing of announcements and deals in relation to the Solomon Islands.”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview 

Image: Getty