Solomon Islands Looks to Canada for Stronger Support in Education, Energy and Connectivity

Solomon Islands is seeking to strengthen its development partnership with Canada as the Government looks to unlock new opportunities in education, employment, affordable energy and transport connectivity for communities across the country.

The priorities were raised by Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, Hon. Peter Kenilorea Jr., during a bilateral meeting with Canada’s Secretary of State for International Development, Hon. Randeep Sarai, on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror, Palau.

The meeting focused on practical areas where stronger cooperation could deliver direct benefits for Solomon Islanders and support the Government’s national development priorities.

Education and skills development were central to the discussion, including possible pathways to strengthen scholarships, training and knowledge exchange between Solomon Islands and Canada.

Minister Kenilorea said overseas education should not only provide qualifications and experience for individuals, but also help build the country’s human capital and strengthen national development.

“The Government wants Solomon Islanders to gain international qualifications, skills and experience while ensuring those skills can be brought home to support national development,” Minister Kenilorea said.

Labour mobility was also discussed as a potential avenue to provide Solomon Islanders with access to employment, income and skills development opportunities abroad, while supporting families and communities at home.

Energy affordability was another key priority, with discussions focusing on ways to reduce electricity costs and support Solomon Islands’ transition to cleaner and more reliable energy.

Minister Kenilorea highlighted opportunities linked to the Tina River Hydropower Development Project and the country’s strong solar potential, noting the importance of regulatory settings that can attract private-sector investment in renewable energy.

Transport connectivity across the archipelago was also highlighted as an important area for future cooperation.

Minister Kenilorea discussed opportunities to improve maritime services, including ferry connectivity and access to suitable vessels to support the movement of people, vehicles and goods between islands.

Air connectivity and potential access to suitable aviation assets were also raised.

Minister Kenilorea welcomed Canada’s continued partnership with Solomon Islands and expressed the Government’s interest in taking bilateral cooperation into a more practical and results-oriented phase.

The bilateral meeting is part of the GREAT Coalition Government’s efforts to build stronger and more diverse development partnerships while ensuring that these partnerships support Solomon Islands’ national interests and priorities.