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Help us improve Gizo Road: Veo

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

PREMIER of Western Province Billy Veo calls on the Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation (GREAT) to support the upgrading of Gizo Road, describing the project as critical to the province’s future development plans.

Speaking during discussions with Prime Minister Mathew Wale in Gizo, Veo said the Western Provincial Government is working towards transforming Gizo into a major provincial hub where essential services such as education, healthcare and other government services can be readily accessed.

He said the province has already undertaken land scoping and demarcation exercises to identify areas for various developments, including educational institutions, agricultural projects, tourism ventures and other social services.

However, Veo said poor road infrastructure remains a major obstacle.

“The problem we have is the road. Look at Gizo Road. We are crying to improve Gizo Road.

“I have been accused of improving Noro Road because I’m a ward member of Noro. I have been red-marked by my people.

“My call is for the government to help double our commitments to improve the Gizo Road,” he said.

Veo said his government had previously discussed the road project with the former Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands as well as officials from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.

He said the response from both parties was encouraging, but changes in government and the appointment of a new Australian High Commissioner have delayed progress on the proposal.

“We have discussed with the former Australian High Commissioner and he gave us assurance of funding to upgrade the road. Currently, I have shared the idea with the new Australian High Commissioner.

“I know that the Minister of Infrastructure is the same minister that we discussed this subject. I was told that the government will give us the project as a token of the country’s 50th independence anniversary.

“I hope and believe the plans with the Australian High Commission and the Minister of Infrastructure still remain,” Veo said.

Veo said the upgrading of Gizo Road will bring significant economic benefits to the province, particularly for local businesses and farmers who rely on road access to transport goods and services.

He added that improved infrastructure will also stimulate economic growth and support the province’s broader development agenda.

Veo said the improvement of Gizo Road will not only benefit local businesses and farmers but will also boost economic activities in Gizo.

He reaffirmed that the Western Provincial Government stands ready to work with the national government and development partners to ensure the project becomes a reality.

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School teacher fined $2,500 for breaching multiple traffic offences at same time

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Central Magistrates’ court has imposed a fine sentence of $2,500 on a school teacher who previously pleaded guilty to violating multiple traffic offences in May this year, stating that his actions is a “disregard for the law” and that “as a teacher you should have known”.

Eddie Sau, 40, appeared at the Magistrate court yesterday faced with charges in relation to using an unlicensed motor vehicle, using an uninsured motor vehicle and driving without a valid driving license.

The court on Tuesday this week had earlier heard from Mr Sau that the reason why he used the expired vehicle on the road was because of him finding hard to access bus transport every morning and having to arrive late at the school for work.

Magistrate Joyceth Paile, in delivering her sentence reminded the offender in court, that the traffic offences are “regulatory offences’’, and when one is spotted driving without proper licenses as prescribed by the law, “automatically’’ one is criminally liable for that breach.

Magistrate Paile reminded the offender in court that his vehicle and its third-party insurance had all being expired since 2022.

The Magistrate further reminded the offender that the reason why vehicles need to undergo regular checks is to have it passed so as to avoid traffic related accidents in circumstances whereby a vehicle is deemed defective.

“That is why traffic rules are in place,” Ms Paile said.

The Magistrate reminded the offender that the maximum penalties for using an unlicensed motor vehicle and driving without a valid license both attract a maximum of $5000 fine or six months imprisonment or both; while using an uninsured motor vehicle attracts a fine of $150 or imprisonment for four months, or both such fine and such imprisonment.

The court considered the aggravating features of the offence and the need to deter the high prevalence of road traffic offences in the country.

It also took into account the manner and circumstances in which the offence occurred. Specifically, in the context where the offender committed multiple traffic offences at the same time and the associated risks involved as regards to uninsured vehicles.

“This case warrants an appropriate fine sentence,” the Magistrate said.

Magistrate Paile imposed a sentenced fine of $2,500 on Mr Sau, to be paid to court by no later than June 23.

The fine imposed by the court will serve as a deterrence to like-minded offenders (drivers) bearing in mind that such an amount is not easy to get, the court has told.

In default of payment, Mr Sau will serve an additional six months’ imprisonment at the Rove Correctional Centre, the court has told.

Meanwhile, Superintendent William Foufaka, Director of the National Traffic Department, told Island Sun yesterday that traffic officers will continue to intensify road inspections with view to enhance road safety and compliance within Honiara.

The Police Prosecutions Unit prosecuted the matter while the offender was self-represented in court.

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Man pleads guilty to theft at Tigoa Airport shop

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

A man has appeared at the Honiara Central Magistrates’ Court after facing charges of Housebreaking with committing theft of around $765.00 worth of valued items at the Tigoa airport canteen in February this year.

Albert Tengatai, 25, of Kagua village, West Rennell, Rennell Bellona Province, pleaded guilty to one count of Housebreaking and committing felony charges, an offence which attracts a maximum of fourteen (14) years imprisonment.

Prosecution alleged that Albert Tengatai, on February 2, of this year, between 1am and 6am, at Tigoa, Rennell Bellona Province, did break and enter a shop, belonging to one, Ms Regina Tipaika Angikimua, and committed a felony, namely, larceny (theft).

Court documents show that Mr Tengatai broke into the complainant’s shop and removed, amongst other items, a carton white flakes taiyo.

The complainant reported the theft incident to the Tigoa Police, at Rennell and Bellona Province which led to an investigation and arrest of the defendant.

The defendant later in an interview with the police, did admitted to committing the break in and theft incident.

Principal Magistrate, Mrs Emily Zazariko Pakoa in view of Mr Tengatai’s guilty plea, directed that the matter be adjourned to June 17 for the court to hear both the Crown and Defence sentencing submissions prior to sentencing Mr Tengati.

Gabriel Maefiri represents the Crown, and Mr Trevor Tukochi from the Public Solicitors’ Office represented the defendant.

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Bus driver fined $700 for operating short route, conductor at large under warrant

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Honiara Magistrate’s Court has fined a bus driver $700 for breaching business licence conditions by operating on a short public transport route, with his bus conductor still at large under warrant yet to appear to get his sentence, the court has heard.

Silas Tuhuwa, 27, of Grashil village, Malango, Guadalcanal Province, appeared ‘voluntarily’ at the Central Magistrate Court on Tuesday this week, after he was issued a warrant of arrest for failure to appear in court on previous court dates.

The court has heard that his bus conductor, Mr Jason Paul, of Koloula village, Malango, Guadalcanal Province, is currently at large, under warrant, with the HCC officers yet to locate him and have him appear to have his plea.

Both were charged after the HCC officers spotted them engaging in illegal short bus route service on a public bus bearing registration number: B-1860.

The bus driver and the conductor, were seen transporting and dropping off passengers from the King George Bus stop to the Kukum Hot bread area, without making its complete route to the Central Market area, the court was told.

Mr Tuhuwa previously pleaded guilty on Tuesday this week for failure to comply with the business license conditions of the Honiara City Council (Regulation of business license) Ordinance 2011 when arraigned.

Magistrate Joyceth Paile in court, reminded the driver of the entrusted responsibility of providing reliable, reasonable and efficient public transport services in view of the business license conditions placed upon them, prohibiting bus short routes.

The court in forming an appropriate sentence, took into consideration amongst other factors, the fact that he voluntarily shown up to court, despite under warrant, and for being apologetic for his actions.

Magistrate Paile imposed a fined sentence of $700 to be paid to the court. In default of Payment, Mr Tuhuwa will subsequently serve 20 days imprisonment term at the Rove Correctional Centre.

In the meantime, the court has issued a directions order for the HCC enforcement team to execute the warrant of arrest for the bus conductor to appear at the court and face charges as he is yet to enter his plea.

Francis Wales who is the case manager of the HCC Prosecution office, told Island Sun previously that the HCC does not have the capacity to enforce this regulation at all bus stops.

Mr Wales advises all passengers who have been victimised of this short route service to take the Bus registration number of any bus sighted in breach of short route and in over charging of bus fare and to call landline #26342.

He added that they can either call or make a formal complaint and statement at the HCC enforcement headquarter.

Mr Harry Bisafo prosecuted the case, and he represented the HCC while the offender was self-represented in court.

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Solomon Islands and Australia agree to work towards treaty

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Prime Minister Matthew Wale has committed Solomon Islands towards establishing a treaty with Australia.

This comes as Prime Minister Wale requested an elevation to the bilateral relations with Australia.

It is unclear yet what the treaty will cover.

PM Wale also told media in Canberra, Australia, that he would ‘review’ the controversial 2022 security treaty with China which to date has been kept from the public domain.

Solomon Islands will also sign the Pacific Policing Initiative, which former prime minister Jeremiah Manele had held back from fully supporting.

A press statement by the PM Press Secretariat yesterday described as ‘key outcome’ the agreement by prime ministers Wale and Albanese to begin work towards establishing the treaty.

A joint statement by the two leaders following their meeting said PM Wale wished ‘to bring about transformational change to the relationship’ with Australia ‘cemented in a treaty, and significant enhancement of the bilateral development assistance partnership between the two countries’.

“Both leaders agreed to commence negotiations towards a comprehensive treaty to capture the two countries’ joint ambition for the relationship. Leaders tasked Foreign Ministers, in consultation with other relevant Ministers, to lead the development of this comprehensive treaty with a view to it being concluded as expeditiously as possible,” the joint statement said.

“During their discussion, Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Wale committed to elevate the bilateral relationship on the basis of mutual trust, respect and open dialogue.”

What the treaty could cover

The ‘comprehensive strategic treaty’ is expected to refine and extend beyond the existing 2017 Bilateral Security Treaty and sector agreements and programmes through which Australia is supporting Solomon Islands.

PM Albanese hinted the treaty will be on security and sovereignty of both countries.

“Well, today is, of course, day one and we’ve agreed to develop the comprehensive strategic treaty between us and we’ll work through the issues, but it will be one which identifies our mutual trust, our respect for each other, the sovereignty of both of our nations as we go forward,” Albanese told journalists at a press conference in Canberra yesterday.

“But we have said very clearly we want Australia to be the security partner of choice in our region and we want the Pacific family to look after our security in this region.”

The 2017 Bilateral Security Treaty allows Australia to deploy police, defence and civilian personnel rapidly to Solomon Islands during security crises.

Australia becoming Solomon Islands’ first-choice security partner?

PM Wale was general in his response to questions including whether China would have a role in policing and security in the Solomon Islands.

However, he gave a hint to Australia being his preference, citing turning to a partner which is close by and within the region.

“It will be important in such a treaty, both at the bilateral level, but perhaps also at some stage at the regional level, that the first reference point in these matters is within the region. That I think is very important going forward. So, that’s the direction we want to take,” Wale told the reporters.

Sino-SI security pact to be reviewed

PM Wale told the reporters he will be reviewing the security treaty with China.

“I haven’t been afforded a copy even of that agreement until a day before I left. So, I haven’t had a good look at it. I’ve had a look at it, I’ll be honest with you, but I haven’t had a good look at it. I’ve been praying and fasting about it, but of course, you know, Cabinet will need to have a look at these things. There is a non disclosure clause in it, so I couldn’t show it to you right away, but we are going to be reviewing as we are reviewing other security agreements that we have with many other countries,” Wale told the reporters.

Wale during his time as Opposition leader was initially a harsh critic of the Sino-Solomon Islands security pact, at one point describing it as a ‘clandestine and personal deal’.

However, Wale’s tone towards the pact softened around mid-2025 following a visit to Beijing.

Wale’s Canberra announcements are expected to rock relations with China.

The Chinese embassy told Island Sun it is ready to work with Wale’s government.

“China and the Solomon Islands are comprehensive strategic partners featuring mutual respect and common development for a new era.

“We stand ready to work with the new government of the Solomon Islands to expand practical cooperation in various fields and better benefit the people of both countries,” the Chinese embassy statement said.

Full support for the Pacific Policing Initiative

Changing Solomon Islands’ stand, PM Wale has agreed to sign the MOU for the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI).

“Leaders expressed their commitment to shared responsibilities and contributions to regional security including through the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI). They welcomed that Solomon Islands, under Prime Minister Wale’s leadership, signed the PPI Memoranda of Understanding to enable Royal Solomon Islands Police Force participation in the Pacific Police Support Group, which deploys at the request of other PIF members,” the post-dialogue joint statement by the two leaders yesterday said.

Previously, Solomon Islands has kept the PPI at an arm’s length, with former PM Manele endorsing the PPI ‘in principle’ only, citing the need for more consultation.

The PPI is a regional peace and security programme designed to strengthen law enforcement capability, boost coordination and combat issues like transnational crime and drug trafficking across the Pacific.

It was proposed by Australia in 2023 and formally set in August 2024.

Australia has committed AUD400 million (SBD2.3 billion) to the programme over five years.

Analysts have described the PPI as Australia’s counter-measure to China’s growing influence in the Pacific, and a reaction to the 2022 Sino-Solomons security pact.

Photo credit: Australian High Commissioner (AHC)

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Western province eyes major investments in energy sector

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Western Provincial Government is pursuing major investments in the energy sector as part of its strategy to reduce costs and improve services for households and businesses across the province.

Premier Billy Veo said the provincial government has identified several key projects, including the proposed Paraso Thermal Power Plant and the reclamation of two fuel storage tanks in Noro.

Speaking on the government’s plans, Veo revealed that a Chinese investor has expressed strong interest in developing a thermal power plant at Paraso, with discussions currently underway.

He said the Deputy Premier is working closely with the investor to progress negotiations and determine the next steps for the project.

“Once the negotiation is complete, a paper will be presented to the executive for further discussion.

“I understand that Solomon Power will not be happy, but my government is focusing on delivering the best services for our people,” Veo said.

He said the proposed Paraso Thermal Plant is expected to provide more affordable electricity to households as well as small and medium-sized businesses.

“Currently, the cost of electricity is very expensive and we are looking at helping our people with less cost and more benefits,” Veo said.

He also announced plans to reclaim two fuel storage tanks located on provincial land in Noro once the current lease agreement with Mark Warth Oil Limited expires.

Veo said the company is presently operating the facilities under an arrangement that the provincial government no longer considers beneficial to the people of Western Province.

“Mark Warth is currently using the fuel tanks. It was an agreement that we later see as not beneficial for our province.

“When the land was transferred back to Western Province, there was a Memorandum of Understanding between the government at the time and Mark Warth on revenue sharing.

“Western Province lost huge revenue due to the MOU,” he said.

Veo said the provincial government intends to terminate the lease once it expires and take over fuel distribution operations in the province.

He described the move as a key component of Western Province’s broader investment strategy in the energy sector, aimed at creating long-term economic benefits while ensuring more affordable and reliable energy services for residents.

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Thousands gather for healing in Auki

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BY RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Thousands of people in and around Auki town, Malaita Province gathered to witness and receive miraculous healing and learn teachings on Tuesday from renowned Ghanian evangelist, Dag Heward-Mills. 

People filled the Auki Primary School Park grounds before the 4pm starting time and highly anticipated the Healing Jesus Campaign. 

Randy Mills Thompson described the first day’s atmosphere as electric, as crowds came from near and far, hungry for the Word of God and miraculous encounters at the first session. 

“This crusade marks a defining moment for Auki and the surrounding communities; a move of God that will not be forgotten. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, Hebrews 13:8,” Mr Thompson said. 

A one-day pastor seminar was also held yesterday with evangelist Dag Heward-Mills at the Church of God in Auki.

Pastor Joash Maefasia said the simple act of those who come from far just to attend the conference demonstrates the importance they place on receiving goals.

He said that attendance at the seminar has contributed to their success and the expansion of the kingdom of God.

“I stand today to speak as the host of this important seminar on behalf of all Christian faith believers who are here today.

“I know that it is not easy to come and attend this event, from whatever location; the fact that you are here demonstrates the importance you place on receiving goals,” he said.

He appreciates the evangelist and the team and looks forward to the inspirational messages that will be delivered to them during the seminar.

“To the evangelist and team, we appreciate your time and look forward to this inspirational message that God has placed in your heart to be delivered to us during this seminar,” he said.

He also encouraged participants of the seminar to open their hearts and minds so that the teachings and messages delivered during the seminar can be understood and applied to their daily lives.

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OBMs to be distributed across Western province

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

FORTY Outboard Motors (OBMs) donated by the People’s Republic of China will be distributed across all 26 wards in Western Province as well as key institutions including schools, health clinics and government substations.

Premier Billy Veo announced this during the official handover ceremony, describing the donation as a significant boost to transportation and service delivery throughout the province.

He said the OBMs will provide vital logistical support and improve connectivity between rural communities and urban centres, helping to strengthen economic and social activities across Western Province.

“On behalf of my government and the people of Western Province, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the People’s Republic of China and Fujian Province for your generosity, friendship and continued support.

“As we officially receive these assets, we also confirm our commitment to strengthening cooperation and building on the relationship we share with China for the benefit of our people and future generations,” Veo said.

He said the donation reflects the growing partnership between Western Province and China’s Fujian Province and expressed confidence that the sister-province relationship will continue to flourish.

Veo said the support from Fujian Province has contributed to development efforts in Western Province and will help improve access to essential services in remote communities.

Representing the Chinese delegation, First Secretary Charlie Song highlighted the strong relationship between Western Province and Fujian Province, saying that both provinces share common interests in advancing rural development and creating opportunities for their people.

Song said fisheries, tourism and community development are among the key areas where both provinces can work together for mutual benefit.

“I hope the two provinces will build on what has already been achieved and continue to explore new avenues of cooperation in the fields of agriculture, trade, tourism and people-to-people exchange, and deliver more tangible and practical outcomes to benefit the people of our two countries,” he said.

The donation of the 40 OBMs is expected to improve transportation services and support development initiatives in rural communities throughout Western Province.

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China donates 40 OBMs to Western Province

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BY BEN BILUA

Gizo

CHINA has donated 40 OBMs to Western Province as part of ongoing relationship between Western Province and Fujian Province.

First Secretary of the Chinese Embassy in Honiara handed over the OBMs to Premier of Western Province yesterday.

In his speech, Charlie Song said the OBMs cost around SBD720,000.00 as a gesture of friendship to Western Province.

He said China has already donated and will continue to support the recovery and rehabilitation efforts after cyclone Maila.

“This reflects the responsible attitude of the Chinese Government and its international humanitarian spirit and also a vital practice of building a community with a shared future for humanity as advocated by Chinese President Xi Jinping,” Song said.

Premier Billy Veo acknowledged the donation saying that Western Province is indeed honoured to receive the donation.

He said the donation marks another milestone in the relationship and cooperation between our province and the People’s Republic of China particularly through the sister-province relationship between Western Province and Fujian.

“I wish to express our sincere gratitude to the government of the People’s Republic of China, to the Excellency the Ambassador and the Chinese Embassy in Solomon Islands and especially to Fujian for this timely and meaningful support,” Veo said.

He said Western Province is geographically disperse across many islands and communities and that sea transport is not simply a convenience – it is essential.

“It connects our communities to schools, health services, government offices, markets, banking services and development opportunities,” Veo said.

He said the OBMs will greatly strengthen the province’s capacity to reach its people more effectively and improve service delivery throughout the province.

Veo said the OBMs will also support efforts in responding to urgent community needs, strengthening transport links and promoting economic activities across the islands.

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REWARDING TRIP

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PM Wale secures more assistance and promises from Australia in maiden international engagement

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s choice of Australia as his first country to visit has paid off with hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and the assurance of support for his government’s agendas.

Both countries have also agreed to elevate bilateral relations, which Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said was at the behest of PM Wale.

A ‘comprehensive strategic treaty’ was also agreed upon, both leaders saying they have tasked their foreign affairs ministers to immediately work on.

A press statement by the Solomon Islands PM Press Secretariat yesterday described the treaty as a ‘key highlight’, adding that other highlights include:

-Australia will provide SBD$200 million (AUD$35 million) to assist Solomon Islands in responding to Tropical Cyclone Maila and addressing the problem of fuel price increase – impacts of global energy shocks.

-In recognition of the Government’s strong focus on education, Australia will double training and vocational scholarships to 1,500 by 2027.

-Australia will work with partners to support Solomon Islands goal of achieving free education, helping to secure a brighter future for the next generation.

-The number of Pacific Engagement visas allocated to Solomon Islands will increase to 300 in the next programme year.

-Both countries welcomed continued cooperation to strengthen the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, including the planned completion of a new police academy in Honiara by 2028.

-The policing partnership will continue under the next phase of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force–Australia Policing Partnership Programme.

Australia’s huge list of gifts for PM Wale was accompanied by words of gratitude by its leaders towards Wale choosing Australia to be his first country to officially visit as Solomon Islands’ prime minister.

In parliament yesterday, Australian PM Albanese welcomed PM Wale and his ministers to the Australian parliament and described Wale’s visit as an ‘honour’.

“This is a very significant visit for Australia indeed. One of the most significant that we have had during my time as prime minister that we could possibly have. Because the Solomons is of course very close neighbours to us.

“At a time of global disruption, respectful engagement between equal partners looking to solve shared challenges and seize shared opportunities is more important than ever – in education, in security, in tackling climate change and economic resilience and in economic development. Because it’s through these relationships based in mutual trust, respect and dialogue that we will build and strengthen our shared future as members of the Pacific family, and bring security and opportunity to our peoples,” Albanese told the Australian parliament yesterday.

The vibrant Australian parliament chamber which is an arena of heated debates over laws and domestic affairs, yesterday saw a rare solemn moment of unity among the legislators as they welcomed PM Wale and his delegation.

Albanese also said that he looks forward to reciprocating Wale’s visit later this year to Honiara.

A joint statement by the two leaders following their dialogue yesterday said Australia stands ready to support the agenda of PM Wale’s Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation (GREAT).

“Both leaders also agreed to continue discussions on how Australia could further support the new government’s agenda based on the vision for the relationship shared by Prime Minister Wale with Prime Minister Albanese,” the statement said.

“Australia, as a committed and reliable partner to Solomon Islands and the Pacific, agreed to provide SBD200 million (AUD35 million) to assist Solomon Islands with the response to Tropical Cyclone Maila and the impacts of global energy shocks.

“In recognition of the priority Prime Minister Wale’s government places on education, Australia agreed to double the number of training and vocational scholarships to 1500 in 2027. Australia committed to work with all willing partners to help Solomon Islands achieve the new government’s goal of free education and provide the next generation of Solomon Islanders a brighter future. Leaders also discussed other opportunities to deepen the education partnership going forward. Leaders welcomed the impending opening of the Australian-funded Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre in Honiara.

“Leaders celebrated recent growth in our economic relationship, including the contributions of Solomon Islands PALM workers in Australia. Leaders also agreed to increase the number of Pacific Engagement visas to be offered to Solomon Islands to 300 for the next year of the program. This increase represents a doubling of Solomon Islands’ Pacific Engagement visa allocation and will further strengthen people-to-people ties and encourage greater cultural, business and educational exchange.

“Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Wale reaffirmed the importance of the Solomon Islands–Australia security partnership. Leaders welcomed the continued partnership to grow the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, including the planned completion of a new police academy in Honiara in 2028. The Leaders agreed to maintain the policing partnership through the next phase of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force – Australia Policing Partnership Program.

“Noting Australia’s longstanding investment in Solomon Islands’ sovereign security capabilities, including multiple projects across the country, Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Wale acknowledged that Solomon Islands’ Western Border Outpost was nearing completion. The new facility will bring together police, customs, and immigration officials in a single location, enhancing Solomon Islands’ border security and maritime surveillance capability,” the joint statement said.

Photo credit: Australian High Commission (AHC)

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