BY NED GAGAHE
Australia has announced new investments in education, healthcare and policing as the two countries move towards negotiating a comprehensive bilateral treaty.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made the announcement during his visit to Honiara yesterday, where he became the first foreign leader to address Solomon Islands’ Independence Day celebrations.
Mr Albanese reaffirmed Australia’s longstanding partnership with Solomon Islands, saying that Australia was the first country to recognise Solomon Islands as an independent nation 48 years ago.
“It is a great honour for Australia for me to be here, the first foreign leader to address your Independence Day celebrations,” he said.
“I congratulate the people of Solomon Islands on 48 years of independence. Australia has been there since day one.”
As part of Australia’s latest support package, Mr Albanese announced SBD56 million in education assistance to help improve learning opportunities across the country.
The funding will provide new books for every primary school student, upgrade rural training centres and support the Government’s policy to expand access to education.
“We know this is a priority for Prime Minister Wale,” Mr Albanese said.
“This will provide new books for every child in primary school. It will provide for an upgrade in rural training centres across the Solomons to provide the skills for Solomon Islanders to build their future.”
Australia also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Solomon Islands to support the construction of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Academy and provide advanced police training.
Mr Albanese said the agreement will strengthen cooperation between the two countries in policing and law enforcement.
He also said Australia remains committed to support a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pacific.
Photo: Supplied
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