PRIME Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has successfully concluded his visit to New Zealand after having meetings with his counterpart Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones, during which they reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Solomon Islands and New Zealand.
In discussions with PM Luxon, PM Manele acknowledged New Zealand as a key development partner, particularly in fisheries, education, climate resilience, and labor mobility.
He welcomed New Zealand’s continued support for the fisheries and education sectors over the next decade and highlighted the economic benefits of labour mobility schemes such as the Recognised Seasonal Employer(RSE) programme.
PM Manele expressed gratitude for New Zealand’s backing of major projects like the Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant and the Aruligo Tilapia Hatchery, both poised to create jobs, improve food security, and boost economic growth.
He also updated on Solomon Islands’ preparations to host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting next month, under the theme “Iu Mi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent.”
In his meeting with Foreign Minister Peters, the focus was on security cooperation, aviation safety, connectivity, climate resilience, youth empowerment, and trade through the PACER Plus framework.
PM Manele outlined priorities for future engagement, including renewable energy, labor mobility expansion and private sector growth.
He acknowledged New Zealand’s ongoing support for the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and broader security partnership that continue to uphold peace and stability.
In his meeting with Oceans and Fisheries Minister Jones, PM Manele reaffirmed the strong partnership with New Zealand in ocean governance and fisheries cooperation, noting the shared interest in sustainable resource management, economic development opportunities, and building resilience to climate change impacts on marine resources.
A key priority raised by PM Manele was the Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant project, which has reached important milestones, including business case approval, Cabinet endorsement and progressing geotechnical and marine surveys.
Supported by New Zealand and other development partners, this landmark initiative is projected to generate over 1,600 jobs and deliver approximately USD 400 million in economic value over 15 years—transforming economic prospects for Malaita Province and the Solomon Islands as a whole.
PM Manele reaffirmed Solomon Islands commitment to continuous dialogue and partnership, noting the visit as an opportunity to refresh joint priorities through a new Four-Year Plan and explore new areas of cooperation.
PM Manele and his delegation also engaged with business and community groups in Auckland and Wellington. The PM concluded his visit to New Zealand on Thursday 31 July and returned over the weekend.
– OPMC
