TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Solomon Islands has decided to exclude Taiwan, the US, China, and 21 other donor countries from the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum in September.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over the move, explaining the decision was intended to focus on PIF reforms, CNA reported. MOFA noted there is precedent for limiting annual meetings to member states only and said Taiwan respects the decision, which does not single out any partner country and was approved by PIF decision-making mechanisms.

Founded in 1971, the PIF seeks to “foster collaboration and cooperation in the pursuit of shared goals” in the Pacific region, according to its website. It currently comprises 18 countries and territories, including three of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies: Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands, and Palau.

The Solomon Islands, this year’s host, severed ties with Taiwan in 2019 and switched recognition to Beijing.

MOFA emphasized that future PIF hosts should respect member states’ wish to engage with partner countries, and that reforms to the forum’s partnership mechanism should adhere to the 1992 agreement granting all partners the right to attend, consistent with the inclusive spirit of the “Pacific Way.”

In February, Taiwan signed a deal with the PIF Secretariat to invest NT$34.21 million (US$1.1 million) in ocean management over the next three years.