Solomon Islands and Australia have reaffirmed their enduring partnership with a strong focus on security, labour mobility, and climate resilience, following bilateral talks between Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara, Wednesday.
Welcoming Albanese on his first official visit to Solomon Islands, Prime Minister Manele praised Australia’s critical support, particularly its assistance in enabling Honiara to successfully host this year’s Forum.
He commended Canberra’s contributions through the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme and highlighted new priorities under the recently launched National Security Strategy, stressing the need for planning that reflects both national and provincial security needs.
Central to the discussions was Australia’s commitment to support the establishment of a new Police Academy in Solomon Islands, seen as a cornerstone of strengthening law and justice in the country.
“We value Australia’s steadfast support in security and labour mobility, and we look forward to ensuring these efforts directly benefit our people and provinces,” Manele said.
Prime Minister Albanese reaffirmed that commitment, noting the “significant role of Australian police already in-country” and confirming Canberra’s backing for the Police Academy project.
He also underscored climate change as the Pacific’s greatest shared threat, pledging Australia’s partnership in advancing regional resilience.
“This relationship is built on trust, cooperation, and respect. Australia stands ready to support Solomon Islands, whether in security, climate action, or economic growth,” Albanese said.
The meeting, marked by an exchange of gifts, symbolised the depth of the Solomon Islands–Australia relationship.
Both leaders expressed confidence that their partnership would remain a pillar of Pacific regionalism, with Albanese joining leaders in Western Province today, for the retreat before returning to Australia for domestic commitments.
