The Solomon Islands has officially established diplomatic relations with the Principality of Andorra, marking a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place at the Permanent Mission of Andorra to the United Nations in New York, with Peter Shanel Agovaka, Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, and H.E. Ms. Imma Tor Faus, Andorra’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, signing the agreement on behalf of their respective governments.
Minister Tor Faus described the occasion as an important milestone, emphasizing that despite the geographical distance, the two nations share common values in environmental protection, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism.
She highlighted Andorra’s active role in initiatives such as the Mountain Partnership and its commitment to marine biodiversity under the BBNJ Agreement, acknowledging the Solomon Islands’ leadership on climate change and ocean health.
Tourism emerged as a key area for collaboration, with discussions on a potential visa exemption agreement aimed at promoting travel, cultural exchange, and closer ties between the two peoples.
Minister Agovaka welcomed the partnership, noting that it aligns with the Solomon Islands’ foreign policy of “friends to all and enemy to none” and creates opportunities for dialogue and cooperation across multiple sectors.
The Principality of Andorra, a small landlocked country in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, has a population of approximately 85,000.
Established in 1278, it is one of Europe’s oldest states and is governed under a unique co-principality system, with the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell in Spain serving as joint ceremonial Heads of State, alongside a Prime Minister and parliament.
Tourism and retail are the backbone of Andorra’s economy, and the country actively participates in international organizations such as the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and the OSCE.
The establishment of formal relations with Andorra expands the Solomon Islands’ diplomatic network and opens avenues for cooperation in tourism, environmental protection, and sustainable development.