PM Manele sets strategic tone in opening address to PACER Plus Ministers Meeting

The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, MP, today appealed to Pacific leaders at the opening of the PACER Plus Ministerial Meeting in Honiara to ensure the Agreement delivers clear, actionable results for the people of the Blue Pacific.

Welcoming regional leaders and delegates, Prime Minister Manele said, this is an opportunity to renew members’ commitment to regional economic integration. 

He emphasised that the meeting aligns closely with the 54th Pacific Islands Forum theme: “Umi tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent.”

Reflecting on the Agreement’s evolution, the Prime Minister stated, PACER Plus came into force in December 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Despite the challenges of its birth, it has grown into a resilient framework that continues to strengthen our regional economic foundation. 

He commended the PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU) in Samoa for its progress. 

Prime Minister Manele further recognised Australia and New Zealand for their ongoing support through the Development and Economic Cooperation Programme.

Highlighting the significance of the Arrangement on Labour Mobility (ALM), the Prime Minister described it as a cornerstone of opportunity for our people and a powerful contributor to regional economic development. 

He noted that with more than 30,000 Pacific workers currently employed in Australia and New Zealand, labour mobility continues to generate remittances, skills, and employment for Pacific families while supporting labour markets in receiving countries.

However, he stressed the need for long-term sustainability. 

“I therefore urge Australia and New Zealand to allocate separate and dedicated funding for the ALM to ensure its sustainability and expansion.”

Prime Minister Manele also underscored the importance of trade in goods, services, and investment.

“Trade extends beyond goods; it includes services, investment, and the movement of people. For Small Island Developing States, trade remains a lifeline that supports livelihoods and drives national growth.”

He affirmed, as Solomon Islands prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country status in 2027, PACER Plus is an important platform for our transition into the global trading system. 

The Prime Minister further highlighted the importance of unity and multilateralism in a volatile global environment.

“We must continue to speak with one voice to protect our region’s economic stability amid increasing trade tensions and global market disruptions.”

He stressed, this meeting must not end with words alone. We must deliver clear, actionable results that can go before Pacific Islands Forum Leaders.

He further challenged Ministers to take collective responsibility:

The Prime Minister outlined Key Priorities’ call for action. 

 “Act collectively as ten PACER Plus Parties to advance trade in goods, services, and investment. Establish a clear mechanism to align overlapping donor-funded activities with PACER Plus priorities. Implement concrete steps to unlock tourism, digital trade, and professional services across the region. Adopt measures that attract sustainable investment and support climate resilience and inclusive growth. Secure separate and dedicated funding for the ALM from Australia and New Zealand.” 

The Prime Minister urged all Ministers, including Australia and New Zealand, to “lead boldly” and demonstrate that PACER Plus continues to deliver meaningful benefits.

He also thanked the PPIU team, acknowledging their commitment has brought PACER Plus and the Arrangement on Labour Mobility to life.

Prime Minister Manele reaffirmed the region’s shared commitment that PACER Plus is more than an agreement. It is a partnership for development, a pathway to inclusive growth, and a testament to our shared vision. 

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Prime Minister’s Press Secretariat