Solomon Islands and Fiji Strengthen Security Ties with New Agreement
Solomon Islands and Fiji have signed a new security agreement today, aimed at strengthening cooperation and promoting regional stability.
The agreement was formalized at the sidelines of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara by Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele and Fiji’s Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.
Building on years of collaboration in peacekeeping efforts, the new agreement sets a stronger and more formal framework for joint security operations between the two countries.
Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele signing agreement.
Delivering his remarks, Prime Minister Manele highlighted the significant contributions of Fiji through various security cooperation’s, including the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
“The deployment of Fijian soldiers as we have heard goes back to World War II. Some have paid the ultimate sacrifice and Solomon Islands pay tribute to them and thank them for their service.”
“We have seen Fiji military force and police work with our people to restore and enhance community lives and service. We hope and pray we will not trigger the agreement, but should the need arise we have placed Fiji on our speed dial,” Prime Minister Manele said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rabuka affirmed Fiji’s commitment to the partnership, highlighting its potential to provide a stronger and more formal basis for security cooperation.
Fiji’s Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.
He also emphasized the mutual respect and equality between the two countries.
“We have always shared a strong and enduring relationship which has seen improved people-to-people relationships and had support for humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and support for sustainable development initiatives within both countries. We do not claim to be the stronger partner.”
“We may be bigger in population, but we are of equal strength. We are proud to stand by and stand with you, Prime Minister, and your government. We have been proud to do that over the years,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
SIBC News understands that the new agreement aligns with key regional frameworks such as the Biketawa and Boe Declarations, which calls for collective efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.
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