VISITING Australia’s deputy prime minister Richard Marles announced what he called “a package of commitments for the Solomon Islands maritime sector” before he left the country today.

Marles said this latest package builds on Australia’s 40-year strong Defence Cooperation Program.

“It includes continued support to small boats and infrastructure, potential private sector financing for vessel maintenance, ongoing assistance to the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority, and long-term support for Solomon Islands’ maritime security capability through its Guardian-class Patrol Boats,” Marles explained. 

“Australia has a long history of partnership with the Solomon Islands on security and connectivity in the maritime sector,” he added.

“Together with Solomon Islands, Australia’s police, defense, and development partnerships promote law and order, support maritime and border security, combat illegal fishing, deliver sustainable infrastructure, and respond to natural disasters. 

“The security of the Pacific is the shared responsibility of the Pacific family, of which Australia is part.”

Marles’ visit came as the geopolitical tussle between China and the West rages on across the Pacific. 

He added that as a maritime nation, Australia understands the importance of safe marine travel, especially for the provincial Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF). 

“In the last 12 months Australia has provided more than 20 ray-boats to the RSIPF, and will replace more than 80 percent of the RSIPF’s small boat fleet by 2024. 

“Defence is refurbishing the RSIPF’s small boat infrastructure facilities across Solomon Islands. 

“Works have been completed at Taro and Tulagi, and will further commence over the next 12 months in Gizo, Auki, Buala, Kirakira and Kulitanai. 

“These facilities include new sheds, water tanks and storage facilities to ensure the RSIPF can safely and securely store their small boats.”

Marles also said Australia is exploring private sector financing for the refurbishment of the Sasape shipyard, which is the largest employer in Tulagi and one of only two commercial shipyards in the country capable of servicing vessels over 500 tonnes. 

“Refurbishing the shipyard will mean that local shipping can undergo repairs and refurbishment in Solomon Islands, rather than traveling to Fiji, Vanuatu or Australia.

“This will help improve safety and lower costs.   

“Hydrography is an important aspect of maritime safety and since 2017 Australia has been the Primary Charting Authority for Solomon Islands. 

“This partnership supports safe and efficient maritime trade and port operations and safe coastal navigation for mariners through the development of surveys and nautical charts.”