The Deputy Prime Minister [DPM] and Minister for Defence of Australia, Richard Marles, arrives in Honiara today – Wednesday 18th February to meet with the Solomon Islands Government.
This is his first visit to Honiara for 2026. His last visit was around this time last year.
Whie in Honiara Deputy Prime Minister Marles will meet with the Prime Minister Hon Jeremiah Manele, the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Frederick Kologeto and other Ministers, to discuss further opportunities for economic, development and security cooperation between the two neighbours.
The visit comes as Australia and Solomon Islands continue to deepen the relationship, with bilateral action underway on infrastructure construction, vital health education programs and initiatives such as PALM, Strongim Bisnis and skills development.
This includes work on expanding the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), including a new Police Academy. Australia has committed to supporting this key priority as the country’s primary security partner for opening in time for Solomon Islands’ 50th anniversary of Independence in 2028.
During his visit, Deputy Prime Minister Marles will also hand over a set of drones to assist the Solomon Islands’ Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) capabilities.
Deputy Prime Minister Marles last visited Solomon Islands in January 2025. This is his 13th visit to Solomon Islands, reflecting his longstanding and deep Pacific connections over more than two decades.
“I look forward to the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Manele again in Honiara, as we continue to support Solomon Islands’ development, regional security and resilience,” said Deputy Prime Minister Marles.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, said the visit is vital in strengthening the relationship between the two countries;
“To have the Deputy Prime Minister visit Solomon Islands twice in just over twelve months speaks to the importance we place on this relationship.
‘I’m looking forward to positive and productive discussions that will take forward that relationship in a spirit of true partnership.’
– AHC Press
