The Solomon Islands and Fiji have signed a new bilateral Security Agreement, which will enable the deployment of Fiji’s security personnel to the Solomon Islands when required. This marks a significant step in strengthening security cooperation between the two Melanesian nations.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and his Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Rabuka formalised the agreement in Honiara yesterday, reaffirming what both leaders described as the “deep bonds” between the two Melanesia nations.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and his Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Rabuka formalised the agreement in Honiara yesterday.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Manele said the agreement reflects the shared history, culture, and ocean that connect the two nations.
“Given Solomon Islands’ special situation as a post-conflict country, we have adopted a security strategy of broadening our partnerships and deepening ties with our Melanesian wantoks. Fiji is well placed to support us in filling critical security gaps when called upon,” he said.
Manele added that anchoring the signing against the backdrop of Solomon Islands’ Tepuke voyaging canoe and Fiji’s Uto ni Yalo symbolises the shared Blue Pacific identity and the spirit of the Oceans of Peace Declaration championed by Fiji.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele
“It reminds us of our heritage and the values of peace, progress, and prosperity that bind our peoples together,” he said.
Fiji Prime Minister Rabuka echoed the sentiments, describing Solomon Islands as a “Melanesian brother” with whom Fiji shares a strong and enduring relationship.
“This agreement strengthens our cooperation not just in security, but also in humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and nation-building. Fiji does not claim to be the bigger or stronger partner, but we stand by Solomon Islands and its people,” he said.
Rabuka added that the agreement is a symbol of Fiji’s long-standing commitment to regional security and solidarity.
Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Rabuka
“Like the Tepuke and Uto ni Yalo that always look out for each other, our nations must carry that same spirit of watchfulness and care.”
The new agreement aligns with the region’s Biketawa and Boe Declarations on regional security and comes as Pacific nations face growing challenges, from natural disasters to shifting geopolitical pressures.
Fijian soldiers and police have previously served in Solomon Islands under the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) during the ethnic tension period from 2003 to 2017, and even during the Second World War.
Fijian Prime Minister (PM) Sitiveni Rabuka on Tuesday visited the Matanikau Memorial Site and the U.S. Memorial Site in Central Honiara to pay tribute and honour soldiers who fought and died during World War II.