PM Manele Reaffirms Solomon Islands’ Commitment to Melanesian Unity and Regional Strength at 23rd MSG Leaders’ Summit

Tuesday 24 June 2025 —In a world of increasing uncertainty and shifting alliances, Solomon Islands stands firm alongside its Melanesian partners to protect shared interests, promote peaceful coexistence, and uphold our collective voice on the global stage. The challenges of trade tensions, climate change, and geopolitical pressures require our unity now more than ever.

Reflecting this spirit, Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele congratulated Fiji on assuming the Chairmanship of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) and expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to his delegation.

“Let me congratulate you on your assumption as chair of the MSG, reassured of Solomon Islands support,” he said.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Vanuatu’s leadership in the previous term, underscoring the enduring unity that guides the MSG as it faces shared regional challenges.

Prime Minister Manele highlighted the ongoing reforms within the MSG, aimed at strengthening governance, improving recruitment processes, and aligning the organisation with the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.

The introduction of a Dialogue Partner Mechanism was welcomed as a key step toward securing vital resources and partnerships to enable the Secretariat to serve Melanesian peoples effectively.

The devastating earthquake that struck the MSG Secretariat building in Vanuatu last year was a matter of serious concern. Plans to conduct a geotechnical assessment to determine the structural integrity of the building and chart the best way forward received full support. Ensuring a resilient and sustainable headquarters is crucial for the Secretariat’s continued role in advancing Melanesian interests.

Prime Minister Manele noted the expanding role of the Secretariat, especially in areas such as climate finance, fisheries management, and sustainable development. The establishment of a Project Coordination and Management Unit, supported by Australia, was praised for focusing on people-centred initiatives, including promising salt production projects aimed at local communities.

Security remains a priority for Solomon Islands, which continues to build its own capabilities while strengthening regional cooperation. Progress on the MSG Security Strategy was welcomed, with a firm commitment to collaborate with member countries and associate partners to enhance stability and peace throughout the region.

On the delicate matter of Kanaky-New Caledonia, Solomon Islands stands united with its MSG partners in supporting the FLNKS and advocating for a peaceful and just political solution. Keeping this issue on the MSG agenda until an amicable resolution is achieved remains essential.

The threat of climate change looms large over Melanesia. Solomon Islands fully supports the MSG’s joint submission to the International Court of Justice and calls for accountability from countries responsible for historical emissions. This stance reflects the nation’s strong commitment to climate justice and collective action to safeguard Melanesia’s future.

Economic integration was another key focus of the Summit. Solomon Islands backed the proposed MSG Business Travel Card and called for the establishment of a working group to examine the necessary technical and legal frameworks. This initiative promises to ease travel and deepen economic ties across Melanesian countries, benefiting trade and development.

Recognising the broader Pacific context, Solomon Islands supported the Pacific Fusion Centre (PFC) as a valuable regional initiative focused on enhancing information sharing, security coordination, and strategic analysis across the Pacific. However, it also backed the decision to defer formalising any agreement between the MSG Secretariat and the PFC until the ongoing Review of the Regional Architecture is completed. This measured approach ensures that any future arrangements are well-aligned, transparent, and in harmony with broader Pacific regional frameworks.

Prime Minister Manele also conveyed sincere appreciation to Fiji for allocating land in Suva for the Solomon Islands High Commission. Construction plans are underway, with a commitment to keep Fijian authorities informed as the project progresses.

The 23rd MSG Leaders’ Summit concluded with a Retreat and the signing of a Communiqué that reaffirmed members’ dedication to institutional reform, climate action, cultural cooperation, rebuilding the Secretariat, and strengthening dialogue with partners. Solomon Islands warmly welcomes these outcomes and looks forward to working closely with all MSG members to uphold Melanesian unity and promote shared regional interests.

[ENDS]

– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT