People in the Solomon Islands are preparing to vote in an election that could reshape regional security, with citizens effectively choosing if their nation will deepen its ties with China. "We used to have a lot of problems, especially when we choose leaders," says community leader Allan Siau. "I reserve my position on the geo-politic thing... we are friends to all and we enemy to none." It is the first election since Solomon Islands severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 2019, giving its backing to Beijing's "One China" principle instead. Police from Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea are on the ground to help local forces keep the peace. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES