BY NED GAGAHE

Australia’s Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Hon. Pat Conroy MP, has concluded a successful visit to Solomon Islands.

On his first day in Honiara, Minister Conroy held warm and constructive meetings with Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Frederick Kologeto, and Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Jimson Tanangada.

Minister Conroy and Prime Minister Manele discussed Australia’s strong support for Solomon Islands’ economic, development, and security goals, emphasizing the impact of Australian-backed initiatives on job creation and infrastructure.

With Deputy Prime Minister Kologeto, Minister Conroy explored the importance of aviation and telecommunications in boosting economic growth across the islands.

On the second day of his visit, Minister Conroy announced a substantial new Australian funding package worth over SBD140 million, supporting Solomon Islands’ national priorities including roads, infrastructure, energy, and the hosting of the Pacific Islands Forum.

He also reaffirmed Australia’s long-term security partnership with Minister Tanangada, highlighting continued support for the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF).

Minister Conroy held productive talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, regarding Australia’s support for Solomon Islands in hosting the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting. This support includes assistance with security, logistics, cybersecurity, and infrastructure.

Minister Conroy also met with Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Hon. Trevor Mahaga, to discuss joint climate priorities — including Australia’s bid to co-host COP31 in 2026 with Pacific nations.

The ministers also discussed next steps for advancing Australia’s commitment to help Solomon Islands develop its sovereign Humanitarian and Disaster Response capability, including a new humanitarian warehouse in Honiara to support fast and effective responses when disasters strike.

These efforts aim to boost economic opportunities and improve the livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.

The visit to Solomon Islands follows recent official visits by Minister Conroy to Fiji and Papua New Guinea, reinforcing Australia’s ongoing engagement with key Pacific partners.

This marks his fourth official visit to Solomon Islands as Minister.

He previously visited in September 2024, July 2023, and August 2022.

Minister Pat Conroy is now Australia’s longest-serving Minister for Pacific Affairs, following his recent reappointment.

He was also reappointed to Cabinet, reflecting Australia’s strong and ongoing commitment to its Pacific partners, including Solomon Islands.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]