Solomon Islands and the United States reaffirm cooperation on development, security, and investment
The Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Honiara, His Excellency Daniel O’Hara, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela yesterday (28th May 2026), reaffirming the strong and enduring bilateral relationship between Solomon Islands and the United States of America.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both parties to discuss key areas of cooperation, including development assistance, economic partnership, security collaboration, and humanitarian support.
Discussions highlighted continued progress under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Threshold Program, an initiative aimed at supporting poverty reduction and sustainable economic growth through improved natural resource management and tourism investment.
The Solomon Islands Government reaffirmed its interest in progressing towards the MCC Compact Program while underscoring its commitment to addressing Trafficking in Persons (TIP) concerns through strengthened legal and institutional frameworks, including steps toward accession to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC).
The meeting also acknowledged the recent signing of the Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Investment Incentive Agreement on 23 May 2026, marking a significant milestone in promoting private sector investment and economic growth in Solomon Islands.
Following the signing, a team from the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is currently in Honiara undertaking project planning discussions for infrastructure developments in Solomon Islands. Priority sectors discussed include transport, ports, aviation, and mining, areas in which the United States has expressed strong interest in supporting the Solomon Islands Government.
Both parties also discussed ongoing efforts to re-establish the United States Peace Corps Programme in Solomon Islands. The Government reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the necessary consultations and processes to facilitate the programme’s return, recognising its long-standing contribution to community development.
Minister Houenipwela reiterated Solomon Islands’ support for enhanced maritime cooperation, including discussions on the proposed Ship-Rider Agreement. The Government emphasized that any future arrangement must align with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), while fully respecting national sovereignty and domestic legal frameworks.
Solomon Islands also confirmed support for progress on the pending Memorandum of Understanding with the United States Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), which will formalise ongoing efforts to recover World War II personnel.
Minister Houenipwela further reiterated the Government’s position on migration documentation, noting that acceptance of U.S. Form I-269 for returning nationals remains subject to stringent verification processes conducted by the Immigration Division under the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration.
The United States also reaffirmed its long-term commitment to assisting Solomon Islands in addressing unexploded ordnance (UXO), including support for survey programmes and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations. The Foreign Minister acknowledged that such assistance continues to contribute significantly to public safety and national development efforts.
The courtesy visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of both countries to strengthening cooperation in advancing sustainable development, regional security, and mutual interests.
PRESS RELEASE
