Australian High Commission
Honiara
Solomon Islands

Australia’s enduring support for security and stability in Solomon Islands

1st September 2016

                                                    Australia’s enduring support for security and stability in Solomon Islands

The Australian High Commission has hosted a media workshop to keep Solomon Islanders informed about Australia’s plans to support security and stability in Solomon Islands after RAMSI departs in June 2017.

Australian High Commissioner, Andrew Byrne, said that the workshop provided an important opportunity for Australia to clarify its plans for post-RAMSI support and to avoid any misunderstandings.

“Australia is the major economic, development and security partner of Solomon Islands and we are committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ security and stability following the conclusion of RAMSI in 2017,” said the High Commissioner.

“We will work with the Solomon Islands Government to develop plans that will enhance our security cooperation and further deepen the close friendship between our two countries,” he said.

The High Commissioner briefed workshop participants on Australia’s proposed post-RAMSI support for Solomon Islands, which will be subject to close consultation and agreement with the Solomon Islands Government. This includes:

  • a new police training and capacity-building program similar to support provided to other countries in the Pacific
  • a package of support for justice and governance, which will build on RAMSI’s achievements
  • a new legal mechanism to enable Solomon Islands to seek urgent operational assistance from Australia if an emergency arose in the future

Deputy RAMSI Special Coordinator Alex Cameron briefed participants on ongoing RSIPF capacity building efforts and noted that the RSIPF was regarded as a professional and effective police force in the region.

The workshop was attended by media representatives from across Solomon Islands’ print, radio and social media outlets who praised Australia’s openness and transparency as post-RAMSI plans progress.