Solomon Islands elect new Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele

The Solomon Islands lawmakers have selected China-friendly Jeremiah Manele as their new Prime Minister. Mr Manele’s ascension to Prime Minister came as a result of winning a secret ballot on Thursday with 31 votes. Mr Manele spoke outside parliament, pledging to continue the country’s policy of embracing China. The previous prime minister withdrew from the contest last week after failing to secure a majority in last month’s election. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote on social media that he looked forward to working closely with Mr Manele.