Solomon Islands has called for a stronger, more visible and responsive Commonwealth that delivers real benefits to its member countries, especially small island developing states and vulnerable nations.
The call reflects the country’s desire to see the Commonwealth become more active in addressing the challenges facing its members and ensuring that no country is left behind.
Speaking at the Pre-CHOGM Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Nelson Houenipwela, said the Commonwealth must strengthen its presence, work more closely with member countries and turn discussions into practical results.
Representing the Government and people of Solomon Islands, Minister Houenipwela thanked the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda for their warm welcome. He also congratulated the country on celebrating its 45th anniversary of independence on 1 November.
He said the anniversary was an important reminder of the strength, achievements and determination of small island nations to shape their own future.
For Solomon Islands, one of the key priorities is the establishment of a Commonwealth Pacific Regional Office. The proposed office would bring technical support and assistance closer to Pacific Island countries, making it easier for them to access Commonwealth services and programmes.
The Minister reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ full support for the initiative, which is being developed by Pacific Commonwealth members in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat.
He also called for stronger cooperation among Commonwealth countries, saying members should speak with one voice on issues affecting their people.
This includes challenges such as climate change, economic pressures, environmental protection and democracy.
Minister Houenipwela also highlighted the importance of making better use of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group so it can respond more effectively to common challenges.
He said stronger partnerships with regional organisations were equally important, particularly in the Pacific.
Institutions such as the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, the Pacific Community, the Forum Fisheries Agency and the Pacific Regional Environment Programme play important roles in supporting Pacific countries.
By working together, these organisations and the Commonwealth can help deliver practical solutions to issues affecting the region.
The Minister also stressed that development must include everyone, especially young people, women and persons with disabilities.
He recognised civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations as important partners in building stronger, fairer and more sustainable communities.
For Solomon Islands, the contribution of Commonwealth institutions also remains valuable.
The Government acknowledged the work of the Commonwealth Secretariat, Commonwealth Foundation and Commonwealth of Learning in supporting areas such as governance, trade, education, climate action, youth development and sustainable development.
The country also welcomed the continued support of the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Its engagement with the Commonwealth Foundation is another important area of cooperation. Through the Arrears Reset and Recovery Initiative, Solomon Islands is working to address outstanding membership payments.
This could help restore access for local civil society organisations to the Foundation’s programmes and grant opportunities, opening more doors for community-based organisations.
The Minister further recognised the Commonwealth of Learning for helping improve access to education, digital learning, skills training and teacher development.
He said Commonwealth forums involving governments, businesses and civil society were also important because they provide opportunities to turn discussions into action.
These platforms can support trade and investment, good governance, women’s empowerment and greater youth participation.
At the heart of Solomon Islands’ message is a simple expectation: the Commonwealth must be more than a meeting place for leaders and ministers.
It must be an organisation that listens to its members, understands their challenges and delivers support where it is needed most.
For small island countries like Solomon Islands, a stronger Commonwealth could mean better access to technical assistance, more opportunities for young people, stronger regional partnerships and a louder voice on the international stage.
The message from the Pre-CHOGM meeting is clear. Solomon Islands wants a Commonwealth that stands together, works together and delivers meaningful results for all its members.
Editorial note: The supplied information did not include direct quotations from the Minister, so the story uses reported speech rather than inventing quotes.
