December 20th 2024.
Australia and the Solomon Islands have recently signed a significant security deal worth $190 million. This move aims to enhance the size and capabilities of the Pacific nation's police force. The funds will be allocated towards various aspects such as training and infrastructure, including the establishment of an officer training center in the capital city of Honiara.
The relationship between Australia and the Solomon Islands has been a priority for both nations, especially since the Solomon Islands entered into a deal with China in 2022, causing concern for its proximity to Australia. However, the Solomons' agreement with Beijing will remain in place despite this new deal with Australia.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that this funding was a result of months of discussions and that it was in response to the Solomon Islands' desire to build a strong and independent security capability. This will ultimately reduce their reliance on external partners in the long run. He also highlighted the close connection and shared history between the two countries, emphasizing their partnership in the region.
Albanese also acknowledged that this move was a step towards addressing any sense of alienation that Pacific nations may have felt due to Australia's previous climate and foreign policies. He shared that discussions began during Prime Minister Manele's first overseas visit to Australia, and he is proud to make a significant investment in the Solomon Islands' police force. This will ensure that they can continue to take primary responsibility for security in their own country.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of Australia being the Solomon Islands' closest ally in the Pacific. As part of this agreement, Australia will continue to support the Solomon Islands in various areas such as security, economic growth, and development.
This deal comes shortly after Australia signed a $600 million agreement with Papua New Guinea to establish a new NRL team there. However, there is a condition that this will only happen if PNG does not enter into any new security or policing arrangement with Beijing.
For those wanting to stay updated with the latest news, sport, politics, and weather, the 9News app is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play. Download now and receive notifications straight to your smartphone. This is just another way Australia and the Solomon Islands are staying connected and working together for a better future.
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