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Australia provides SBD 100m support to Solomon Islands for the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting
Australia has provided a comprehensive package of support worth over SBD 100 million to the Solomon Islands Government for the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Solomon Islands.
This includes the provision of 61 security vehicles, cyber security assistance, upgrades to Honiara’s roads, logistics and airlift support, and funding in recognition of Solomon Islands’ additional responsibilities as Forum host and Chair.
As a founding member of the Pacific Islands Forum, Australia is committed to working with the Pacific family. The Pacific Islands Forum is key to realising Pacific leaders’ vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.
in support of Solomon Islands’ preparations to host the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
Australia has now handed over a 61-vehicle locally-procured police fleet to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), providing a direct capability uplift that will help the RSIPF deliver on its mission to protect and serve the people of Solomon Islands, now and into the future. Australia has also provided driver training for five Solomon Islands protocol officers, and 800 brand new, high-quality police uniforms.
In recognition of the additional responsibilities Solomon Islands is taking on as the Forum Chair, Australia has provided SBD 16.5 million in general funding, which will also assist with event logistics, coordination, and the hosting of Pacific Leaders during the Leaders’ Meeting. This includes SBD 9.9 million for solar and battery systems, as well as the installation of air conditioning at the Forum venues, including Friendship Hall and the Aquatic Centre.
on Friendship Hall and the Aquatic Centre has 776 new solar panels and
backup battery power, funded by Australia.
Australia has deployed a Cyber RAPID Response Team of technical private sector cybersecurity experts to strengthen Solomon Islands’ resilience to cyber-attacks ahead of and during the Leaders’ Meeting.
Australia has also provided SBD 60 million for road improvements as part of our broader contribution to the National Transport Fund.
At the request of Solomon Islands Government, an Australian Defence Force C-130J Hercules aircraft has already provided logistics support, and will continue doing so, including the transport of personnel and equipment such as secretariat supplies, vehicles, and essential medical goods from Honiara to Munda and back in support of the Leaders’ Retreat. Australia has also contracted a local Solomon Islands company to provide a dedicated medical evacuation helicopter for the duration of the retreat.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton said “the wide-ranging support underscores Australia’s commitment to the success of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting, as an important institution which unites our region and makes us stronger.”
SOURCE : Australian High Commission Solomon Islands
