(Reuters) – Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison stated Saturday that there is “great concern” in the Pacific following Solomon Islands confirmation it had formed a security alliance with China.

Friday was a day when the Pacific island country said that China would be expanding its security ties in an effort to protect itself and create a safer investment environment.

The possibility of a China-Silom Island security agreement has raised concerns from Australia and New Zealand, U.S. allies. This is despite the fact that they are strong allies in this region.

Morrison responded to reporters from Sydney asking about the issue, saying “there’s great concern in the Pacific family” because they are always in touch with their Pacific family.

He said, “I will continue to have discussions with leaders throughout the weekend. Yesterday was a meeting with our head-of-mission and Prime Minister (Manasseh), Sogavare.”

Morrison stated that Sogavare, who spoke to Canberra on Friday, expressed appreciation for Australia’s support of Solomon Islands.

Morrison stated that “We are Solomon Islands’ largest partner in development, daylight second, third and fourth,”

After a leaked draft of the cooperation agreement was revealed this week, Australia expressed concerns about its impact on the region’s security.

A Solomon Islands official said that a deal covering China’s military security would be submitted to its cabinet. China has signed an already-signed policing arrangement with the Solomon Islands.

Solomon Islands is a tiny island country located around 2,240 km (1,240 mi) north of Australia. In 2019, China switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to Beijing, signaling China’s increasing influence in the Pacific.

Washington announced last month it would open an embassie in Honiara as a response to China’s desire for stronger military relations.