AUSTRALIAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION VISITS SOLOMON ISLANDS

A delegation from the Australian Parliament’s Primary Industries Committee has visited Honiara, strengthening interparliamentary relations between the two countries.

The visit formed part of Australia’s Pacific Committee Exchange Program, which aims to support parliamentary engagement and deepen cooperation on shared priorities in energy, resources, and agriculture.

The delegation was led by Ms Meryl Swanson MP, Chair of the Primary Industries Committee, and also included Mr Jamie Chaffey MP (Deputy Chair), Ms Trish Cook MP, and Dr Joel Bateman, Committee Secretary.

Over four days, the delegation:

• Explored the Tina River Hydropower Project, a transformative renewable energy initiative powering Solomon Islands’ clean energy future.
• Visited Sape Cassava Farm, witnessing local innovation in agribusiness and climate-resilient farming practices.
• Engaged at Good Samaritan Hospital, where Australian-supported infrastructure and solar technology are improving health outcomes.
• Joined a vibrant cocoa industry event, celebrating Solomon Islands’ record cocoa exports and tasting world-class chocolate.
• Connected with Solomon Islands Parliament, including a courtesy call on the Speaker and observing a live sitting.

The visit showcased the strength of the Australia–Solomon Islands partnership, reaffirming the two countries’ shared commitment to democracy, sustainable growth, and prosperity across the Pacific.

Ms Meryl Swanson MP, Committee Chair, said the trip had been of real practical value to the Committee.

“This visit was inspiring,’ said Ms Swanson. “We saw firsthand the ingenuity and resilience of Solomon Islanders and explored opportunities to work together on agriculture, energy, and sustainability.

“Our nations are stronger when we share knowledge and support each other.”

Acting Australian High Commissioner Andrew Schloeffel said the visit was a fitting way to cap a busy and productive year for the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership.

“Our countries share a fundamental commitment to parliamentary democracy, so it was great to welcome Australian MPs to Solomon Islands and show them what our partnership is all about.

“From renewable energy to agribusiness, we are proud to stand alongside Solomon Islanders in building a future that is productive, prosperous, and climate-resilient.”

ENDS//

– AHC PRESS RELEASE