Koror, Palau – Solomon Islands and Japan have reaffirmed their longstanding friendship and commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across key development and strategic areas.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a bilateral meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela, Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination, Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jr., and Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Iwao Horii, on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
Minister Houenipwela welcomed Japan’s continued support to Solomon Islands and said the new Government was focused on re-engaging with traditional partners, with Japan being an important longstanding friend and development partner.
The meeting discussed cooperation in education, infrastructure, aviation and sports, as well as regional and international issues.
Minister Horii said Japan remains committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ development priorities and confirmed that Japanese experts would continue working with relevant Solomon Islands authorities, including through the country’s education task force.
Japan will explore areas to assist Solomon Islands in the aviation sector including airport infrastructures and terminals.
Minister Kenilorea highlighted the importance of airports to Solomon Islands’ long-term economic development, connectivity and national resilience. He said the Government is looking at airport infrastructures capable of meeting the country’s needs over the next 30 years, including improvements to the terminal, runways and where required, aircraft parking facilities.
The meeting also welcomed Japan’s support for football development in Solomon Islands, including the recent donation of footballs to the Solomon Islands Football Federation. Discussions also explored opportunities for Japanese technical expertise to support coaching and football development in Solomon Islands.
Regional cooperation was another key area of discussion, including Japan’s engagement with the Pacific through the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) process. Minister Horii sought Solomon Islands’ support for Japan’s participation in the evolving regional architecture and highlighted Japan’s interest in being recognised as a Strategic Partner.
The two sides also exchanged views on regional peace and security, including developments affecting the Pacific Ocean. Japan emphasised the importance of maintaining the Pacific as an Ocean of Peace and keeping dialogue and communication open among countries.
Minister Kenilorea reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to its longstanding friendship with Japan and said the Government looks forward to deeper engagement and practical cooperation.
Both sides agreed to maintain close communication and continue working together to strengthen the Solomon Islands–Japan partnership and deliver tangible development outcomes for the people of Solomon Islands.
[ENDS]
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