Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele met with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau during the Pacific Agenda Summit to boost cooperation.
Manele thanked the U.S. for the summit and reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to its partnership, highlighting the importance of collaboration on economic development, security, and regional prosperity.
They discussed the enduring relationship, including historical bonds from the Battle of Guadalcanal, and the U.S.’s support for Solomon Islands’ development, particularly in addressing unexploded ordnance (UXO).
Discussions also covered expanding economic cooperation, investment opportunities with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), and strategic development initiatives like the Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant.
Furthermore, they reviewed ongoing collaboration under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Threshold Program and acknowledged the importance of strengthening people-to-people connections, including education and public health challenges like malaria and dengue. Regional and maritime security cooperation was also addressed.
Landau welcomed Manele’s participation, describing a renewed phase of engagement.
Manele reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to strengthened partnership, including preparations for the 50th Independence Anniversary in 2028.
Source : PMO
