A bilateral meeting focused on deepening cooperation across key sectors was held between Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele when he met with his Papua New Guinea (PNG) counterpart James Marape in Port Moresby this week.
Prime Minister Manele reaffirmed the strength of the Solomon Islands – Papua New Guinea (PNG) relationship, describing it as one rooted in mutual respect, shared history, and Melanesian solidarity.
PM Manele also acknowledged PNG’s continued support across several critical areas of bilateral engagements- PNG’s co-funding and security personnel support contributed to the success of the 2023 Pacific Games.
Over 100 officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary assisted the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, contributing to a peaceful and secure electoral process during the 2024 National General Election.
On immigration and Border Management, PNG’s technical assistance enabled the development and launch of Solomon Islands’ first-ever e-Visa system, marking a major step forward in modernizing the country’s immigration services.
The recent high-level visits from senior PNG leaders during the Honiara Summit is clearly a sign of PNG’s ongoing commitment and regional leadership, added PM Manele.
Prime Minister Marape was updated, preparations for the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting next month are on schedule. Prime Minister Manele expressed gratitude for PNG’s financial contribution of K5 million towards the regional event.
He looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Marape and his delegation to Honiara for the Forum and reaffirmed a shared commitment to regional cooperation.
Prime Minister Manele further assured Prime Minister Marape that Solomon Islands will host the 15th Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) and 10th Joint Border Committee (JBC) in October where two key agreements are expected to be signed – The agreement concerning the Administration of Special Areas and the MOU on Combined Surveillance of the Common Maritime Border.
Both leaders also discussed and emphasised on the importance of the SI–PNG Air Service Agreement (ASA).
Prime Minister Marape welcomed PM Manele to PNG for his official visit and reiterated his government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Solomon Islands.
He underscored that the enduring friendship and shared values between the two nations will continue to guide their cooperation for the benefit of both peoples and the wider Pacific region.
– OPMC
