The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade has successfully concluded a scoping mission to Nauru aimed at advancing discussions on the Intra-Pacific Labour Mobility Arrangement.
The mission focused on identifying opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation and address labour shortages in key sectors, including education, construction, and health.
During the visit, Ministry officials engaged in productive discussions with counterparts from Nauru’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Labour Mobility Unit, education authorities, and representatives from the private sector. These engagements explored practical avenues for collaboration to support Nauru’s workforce needs while creating meaningful employment opportunities for Solomon Islanders.
A key outcome of the mission was the Government of Nauru’s strong interest in progressing Bilateral Arrangements with Solomon Islands. The proposed Arrangements will establish a formal bilateral framework to safeguard Solomon Islanders working in Nauru, recognize existing recruitment arrangements, and facilitate future labour mobility initiatives.
Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Mr. George Hickson, welcomed the positive engagement.
“The positive response from the Nauruan Government underscores our shared commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and ensuring safe and mutually beneficial labour mobility opportunities for our people,” he said.
The mission also included consultations with more than 50 Solomon Islanders currently employed in Nauru, including teachers, nurses, doctors, and construction workers.
Participants shared valuable insights and experiences, and commended the Government for its efforts to engage directly with them and incorporate their feedback into the broader labour mobility framework.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade remains committed to advancing regional partnerships that promote economic growth, skills development, and shared prosperity across the Pacific.
