Solomon Islands and Japan Renew Commitment to Stronger Partnership

A renewed push to deepen cooperation between Solomon Islands and Japan has placed education, infrastructure, aviation, sport and regional peace at the centre of discussions between the two longstanding partners.

The commitment was reaffirmed during a bilateral meeting on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, where Solomon Islands ministers met with Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Iwao Horii.

Solomon Islands was represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela, and the Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination, Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jr.

Minister Houenipwela welcomed Japan’s continued support and said the Government is focused on re-engaging with traditional partners. He described Japan as an important longstanding friend and development partner of Solomon Islands.

Discussions covered cooperation in education, infrastructure, aviation and sports, along with regional and international issues affecting the Pacific.

Minister Horii said Japan remains committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ development priorities. He confirmed that Japanese experts would continue working with relevant Solomon Islands authorities, including through the country’s education task force.

Japan will also explore ways to support Solomon Islands in the aviation sector, including airport infrastructure and terminal development.

Minister Kenilorea said airports are central to the country’s long-term economic development, connectivity and national resilience. He said the Government is considering airport infrastructure capable of meeting Solomon Islands’ needs over the next 30 years, including improvements to terminals, 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.