Australia Vows to Assist Solomon Islands in Building Security Force
Australia is increasing funding toward the Pacific nation in response to security concerns about the CCP regime’s influence in the region.
The Australian government aims to strengthen ties with the Solomon Islands government by committing $50 million (US33.35 million) to establish a new border management system and enhance health infrastructure.
This initiative is part of the government’s strategy to bolster its relationship with the new Solomons government amid worries about Beijing’s influence in the region.
Announced during Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles’s visit to Honiara, the funding aims to digitize the Solomon Island border management by 2025, enabling better revenue collection, tracking of entries and exits, and the introduction of new visa classes.
Additionally, $45 million will be allocated to support the Naha birthing clinic—the Pacific nation’s first birthing center opened in 2023. Australia will provide medical equipment and training for staff at the clinic.
Mr. Marles expressed optimism about the future of the partnership with the Manele government, emphasizing the strong bond between the two nations.
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Australia Offers Assistance in Building Solomon Islands Defence Force
Mr. Marles also highlighted that Australian police personnel will continue to be present in the Solomons, playing a crucial role in supporting the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force.
He mentioned that the Solomon government is undergoing a security review, and Australia will closely monitor this process.
In 2022, Solomon Island became the first regional nation to sign a significant policing agreement with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) under former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.
This agreement permitted the CCP navy to dock and refuel in the Solomons, causing apprehension in Australia and the United States about the potential establishment of a permanent Chinese military presence in the South Pacific.
The former PM was accused of utilizing funds from the communist regime to survive a no-confidence vote following the 2021 riot.
New Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who previously had close ties with the CCP, has affirmed that the security pact will continue.
In a statement, Mr. Manele emphasized that Australia is the preferred partner for the Solomon Islands and expressed a desire for the bilateral relationship to reach new heights during his tenure as prime minister.
He stated that his nation is prepared to engage in discussions for expanded bilateral cooperation with Canberra.
In response, Defence Minister Marles stated that Australia is prepared to assist the Solomon Islands in establishing a defense force if that is their decision.
“From Australia’s perspective, we stand ready to support Solomon Islands in whatever direction they choose to take. We are willing to contribute to the establishment of a defense force if that aligns with Solomon Islands’ objectives.
