Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles and Solomon Islands Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Public Service Francis Sade today officially opened the Western Border Outpost in the Shortland Islands.
The new facility is a joint infrastructure project between the Australian and Solomon Islands governments.
It brings together officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), Customs, Immigration and Biosecurity in one location.
The facility is designed to improve inter-agency coordination, strengthen border management and support maritime security operations in Solomon Islands’ western border region.
Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services John Tuhaika Jnr and Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration Harry Kuma also attended the opening ceremony.
The outpost marks another milestone in the longstanding security partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands.
Once formally handed over, the facility will become a sovereign Solomon Islands asset.
Marles said the opening demonstrated the strength of Australia’s partnership with Solomon Islands.
“The official opening of the Western Border Outpost marks an important milestone in Australia’s longstanding partnership with Solomon Islands,” he added.
The Australian minister said the facility would help Solomon Islands strengthen border management and maritime security while delivering practical benefits for its people.
“It stands as a practical demonstration of what Australia and Solomon Islands can achieve together and provides a sovereign asset for Solomon Islands to use to strengthen its security.”
Australia is investing more than A$100 million in the project.
The facility includes offices, accommodation and a wharf capable of supporting Solomon Islands’ Guardian-class patrol boats.
The project has also delivered economic benefits to local communities.
According to the Australian Government, it created 368 jobs and resulted in more than 1,000 contracts being awarded to local businesses.
Australia said it remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen Solomon Islands’ national security capabilities and the development of the RSIPF.
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