Career diplomat Jeff Roach has officially assumed his duties as Australia’s new High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands. In a formal welcome held today in Honiara, he met with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to discuss essential areas for enhancing bilateral cooperation.
During their meeting, both Roach and Manele reaffirmed their nations’ commitment to maintaining a respectful and constructive partnership. Roach arrives at his new post with extensive experience, having most recently led Australian initiatives concerning the Tuvalu-Australia Falepili Union and the Nauru-Australia Treaty. His previous roles include serving as High Commissioner to Vanuatu and as Deputy Head of Mission at the United Nations in Geneva.
Manele underscored the importance of cooperation, particularly as the Solomon Islands prepares to transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2027. He remarked, “Trade and economic cooperation is very important to Solomon Islands as we move towards LDC graduation, and PACER Plus remains important and critical for our country.” The Prime Minister noted that a Transition Strategy is already in place to manage the gradual phasing out of special support measures typically designated for LDCs.
Additionally, Manele highlighted the significance of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, which has been instrumental in tackling youth unemployment within the islands. He pointed out promising opportunities in Early Childhood Education, building on the success of Solomon Islanders currently employed in Australia’s aged care sector. “Solomon Islands appreciates the opportunities for our people under the PALM scheme, and we are looking at further areas for cooperation including Early Childhood Education,” he stated.
Manele expressed gratitude for Australia’s ongoing support across various sectors, such as project financing, health, education, policing, and infrastructure. This burgeoning partnership signals a pivotal advancement in strengthening relations between Australia and the Solomon Islands, paving the way for mutual growth and a collaborative future. The enhanced cooperation could lead to significant benefits for both nations, fostering development opportunities and promoting stability in the region.