By Georgina Maka’a
The application process and visa requirements for Solomon Islanders to travel to Australia remains rigid for now.
Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles who visited Honiara over the weekend reiterated that Australia and Solomon Islands Governments have had conversations on the matter.
Since 2023, when the current Prime Minister was the Foreign Affairs Minister, Jeremiah Manele has conveyed the Solomon Islands Government’s request for a reciprocal visa waiver arrangement with Australia for SI passport holders.
China, a new diplomatic friend last month December 28, signed an agreement with the Solomon Islands, allowing for citizens from both nations to travel without a visa for single visits of up to 30 days.
When In-depth Solomons probed Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister during the weekend on why the issue has not made any progress, Marles said this matter has been an ongoing conversation between the two governments.
“The parties are very keen to look at ways in which we can increase mobility for Solomon Islanders into Australia and really the runs are on the board here.
“You can see our record in terms of the Labour Mobility Scheme, in terms of the Pacific Engagement Visa.
“Through both of these mechanisms over the last couple of years, it’s right to say that on this day, there are more mobility pathways for Solomon Islanders into Australia than there has ever been,” he said.
He reaffirmed that Australia will continue this conversation with the Solomon Islands government.
“We embrace that, we understand that access to Australia and the Australian economy is an essential aspiration for the Solomon Islands people and that’s something that we recognize, and an aspiration and ambition that we want to meet.”
