Solomon Islanders cast votes in an election that will shape relations with China

Voters board the already overcrowded Fair Glory ferry in Honiara, Solomon Islands, Saturday, April 13, 2024, heading to Malaita Island to vote in a national election. The country in which China has gained most influence in the South Pacific, Solomon Islands, goes to the polls on Wednesday in an election that could shape the region’s future. (Mick Tsikas/AAP Image via AP) HONIARA - Voting began across the Solomon Islands on Wednesday in the South Pacific nation’s first general election since the government switched diplomatic allegiances from Taiwan to Beijing and struck a secret security pact that has raised fears of…