Japan to give up to 430 mil. yen in grants for Solomon Islands elections

TOKYO - Japan has decided to provide up to 430 million yen ($2.8 million) in grants to help the Solomon Islands hold fair elections as Tokyo looks to strengthen ties with Pacific island countries where China has been increasing its clout.

In collaboration with the U.N. Development Program, Japan will give technical advice and assist the local election management board in running unified elections scheduled in 2028, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry.