Solomon Islands' newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Wale has announced plans to review the country's security agreement with China, a deal that has raised concerns among the United States, Australia and other regional partners since it was signed in 2022.

The agreement was reached under former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and sparked fears that it could eventually allow China to establish a naval presence in the South Pacific.

Speaking during a visit to Australia on Wednesday, Wale said he had only recently obtained a copy of the treaty and was still examining its contents.

"I've had a look at it, but not in detail," Wale told reporters in Canberra, adding that the agreement contains a confidentiality clause that prevents its immediate public release.

He said the government would review the China pact along with other security agreements the country has with foreign partners.

Wale had previously called for greater transparency regarding the treaty before becoming prime minister through a parliamentary vote on May 15.

Responding to the announcement, China's Foreign Ministry said Beijing was ready to work with the new Solomon Islands government to expand cooperation in various sectors for the benefit of both countries.

The visit to Australia marks Wale's first overseas trip since taking office. During the visit, he and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese agreed to begin negotiations on a broader strategic partnership covering security and economic cooperation.

Wale said the two countries were seeking to "reset" relations after several years of difficulties under the previous administration.

Albanese reiterated Australia's position that it should remain the Solomon Islands' preferred security partner rather than China.

He said Australia wants Pacific nations to work together to maintain regional security and stability.

Wale expressed support for a regional approach to security, saying it was the direction his government wanted to pursue.

China has already provided police training and support to the Solomon Islands under the existing security agreement. The Pacific nation does not have a military, giving its police force a broader role in national security.

The Solomon Islands strengthened ties with Beijing in 2019 when the government switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China, a move widely seen as a major diplomatic win for Beijing.