AGP Executive Report

Japan–Solomon Ties: PM Matthew Wale met Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo, agreeing to deepen cooperation under Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific vision, with Japan also announcing low-interest loans of 3 billion yen for development. US Partnership & Maritime Security: China urged “openness” after Solomon Islands said it will sign a U.S. Coast Guard ship-rider deal, while Wale’s Washington talks highlighted investment priorities and safer-pacific maritime cooperation. Education Reform: The GREAT Coalition’s PIMEU met MEHRD to push forward Free Education, STEM, teacher welfare and school infrastructure, saying most priorities are now reflected in the ministry’s work plan. Road Upgrades in Malaita: MID has started community consultations for North and East Road improvements under SIRAP2, with contractors introduced and local employment and safeguards discussed. MP Pay Rise Backlash: Transparency Solomon Islands renewed calls to revoke MPs’ pay increase, arguing it’s unfair amid cost-of-living pressure, as the PEC defended the 6% adjustment process. Football U-16: Solomon Islands’ Katukatu boys lost to Fiji on penalties after a goalless semi-final, but still have a third-place playoff chance for the U-17 World Cup berth; New Zealand beat PNG 3-0 to reach the final. Volleyball Withdrawal: Solomon Islands volleyball teams withdrew from the Oceania Zonal Championship in Guam due to financial and visa hurdles. Cyclone Maila Recovery: The National Disaster Council says damage assessments are completed and recovery is moving into longer-term planning after Tropical Cyclone Maila.

US–Solomons Partnership: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau in Washington, signing a letter of intent to bring the Peace Corps back to Solomon Islands after more than 25 years, with $6m pledged for clearing WWII unexploded ordnance. Maritime Security: Wale also backed a US Coast Guard “ship-rider” patrol deal, aiming to boost joint surveillance with local police against illegal fishing, trafficking and other threats. Regional Defence Push: New Zealand and Papua New Guinea signed a defence co-operation agreement for 2026–2029, as security ties across the Pacific deepen amid strategic competition. Pacific Climate Unity: Solomon Islands Environment Minister Wayne Ghemu urged Pacific unity ahead of COP31, as climate ministers meet in Sydney to align positions. Business & Energy Policy: The Private Sector Advisory Group held its first 2026 meeting, with SICCI pushing for an urgent SME Bill and electricity act reforms to cut costs and improve reliability. Gold Export Duty: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo ordered immediate enforcement of a 15% export duty on alluvial gold and gold concentrates. Football (OFC U-16): The Junior Bula Boys’ path continues after reaching the semi-finals; Fiji beat Solomon Islands on penalties to qualify for the U-17 World Cup and set up the final against New Zealand. Commonwealth Games: Solomon Islands is among 11 Pacific nations sending teams to Glasgow for the Games opening today.

US–Solomon Islands ties: U.S. Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau signed a letter of intent to bring the Peace Corps back to Solomon Islands after more than 25 years, and pledged US$6m to help clear World War Two unexploded ordnance. Maritime security: Prime Minister Matthew Wale says the Solomons will sign a ship-rider deal next week for U.S. Coast Guard patrols with local police aboard, as Washington looks to deepen presence in the Pacific. Regional security row: Australia’s Penny Wong again raised concerns with China over a nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific, calling it “destabilising,” with monitors saying it landed near the Solomon Islands–Nauru–Tuvalu area. Climate push: Pacific Climate Ministers, co-chaired by Solomon Islands’ Wayne Ghemu, urged a united front ahead of Pre-COP31 and COP31. Gold revenue move: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo ordered immediate enforcement of a 15% export duty on alluvial gold and gold concentrates. Infrastructure leadership: MID congratulated acting Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara on his appointment. Sports: Junior Bula Boys booked the OFC U-16 final and a 2027 FIFA U-17 World Cup berth after a penalty win over Solomon Islands; Solomon Islands’ own OFC U-16 semi-final run continues to draw attention.

US–Solomon Islands ties: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Washington, signing a Letter of Intent to return the Peace Corps to Solomon Islands and announcing US$6m to expand clearance of World War II unexploded ordnance. Maritime security: Wale also backed a new “ship rider” deal for US Coast Guard patrols in Solomon waters with local police aboard, aimed at tackling drug trafficking, human trafficking and illegal fishing. Pacific missile fallout: Australia raised concerns with China over its nuclear-capable submarine-launched missile test near Tuvalu, saying many Pacific nations share “strong concerns” about transparency and intent. Tourism push: Indigenous tourism operators and government agencies backed a new “Tok Stori” push to grow visitor numbers to the Hapi Isles and improve sustainable tourism. Honiara services: Residents in West Honiara report days-long water cuts, despite Solomon Water repairs and promises of restoration. MP pay rise: Parliament approved a second salary increase in two years, sparking renewed cost-of-living debate. Football (OFC U-16): Solomon Islands booked a semi-final spot after beating Tahiti, setting up a clash with Fiji.

Maritime Security: Prime Minister Matthew Wale says Solomon Islands will sign a ship-rider agreement with the U.S. Coast Guard next week, bringing local police aboard U.S. patrols to boost maritime enforcement against drug trafficking, human trafficking and illegal fishing. Public Service & Cost of Living: MPs have voted themselves another pay rise, with amended 2026 Parliamentary Entitlements Regulations taking effect from 1 April—an increase that is likely to spark fresh debate as households struggle. Climate & Cities: Solomon Islands told the UN that climate change and rapid urban growth are reshaping towns, stressing the need for climate resilience in urban planning. Honiara Water Woes: Residents in West Honiara report days without water despite Solomon Water repairs to the Ngossi pumping main, with full restoration expected only after reservoirs refill. Governance Capacity: Australia-backed Mini MBA training in Brisbane has finished for 20 senior officials from 14 government agencies. Opposition Scrutiny: The Official Opposition demands PM Wale disclose the number and cost of political appointees. Sports (OFC U-16): Katukatu booked a semi-final spot with a 3-1 win over Tahiti, setting up a clash with Fiji; the winner qualifies for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2027. Infrastructure: Bitumen spraying and prime coat work is underway on the Auki town road upgrade, while Honiara’s Riffle Range roundabout upgrade is completed.

PM Matthew Wale’s Washington push: Solomon Islands Prime Minister Wale has arrived in the U.S. for high-level talks, including meetings with Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and development and security partners, with a focus on development finance, economic opportunities and safer maritime cooperation; he then heads to Tokyo for further engagements. Maritime safety deal in the works: Wale also met the U.S. Coast Guard, discussing shared Pacific security priorities and the upcoming Ship Rider Agreement expected to strengthen joint maritime enforcement in Honiara. Belaha security hits business confidence: The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) condemned recent attacks in Belaha, warning they could damage tourism and small business livelihoods and urging swift action by police. Student safety on Honiara buses: Honiara City Council school bus staff completed first aid training supported through the Solomon Islands–Australia partnership, with kits and safety uniforms provided. Energy and climate resilience: MECDM says Phase 1 of a mini solar power project is complete across 25 constituencies, while a separate report highlights Solomon Islands’ role in improving global weather observations through SOFF. Water and infrastructure updates: Ngossi water supply in parts of Honiara is returning after pipeline repairs, and Mendana Avenue asphalt works continue toward Honiara City Council. Sports spotlight: Solomon Islands booked an OFC U-16 semi-final spot with a 3-1 win over Tahiti, setting up a last-four clash with Fiji; Team Solomon also unveiled its Commonwealth Games athletes ahead of Glasgow 2026.

OFC U-16 Football: Solomon Islands booked a semi-final spot with a 3-1 win over Tahiti in Port Moresby, setting up a last-four clash with Fiji after goals from Le’ai, Gau and Makarani. MP & Water Access: Small Malaita MP Rick Hou handed over a $300,000-plus CDF-funded Niu Ples Water Supply Project, including catchment, pipelines, storage and standpipes, urging the community to take ownership for long-term maintenance. Energy & China Ties: MECDM says Phase 1 of the Mini Solar Power Project is complete, with solar systems installed and verified across 25 constituencies nationwide, worth over SBD 800,000. Honiara Water Restored: Solomon Water reports Ngossi pumping main repairs are finished and supply is returning, though full restoration may take up to 48 hours. Governance Update: Three Acting Permanent Secretaries were sworn in—MPNSCS, MID and MHMS—until substantive appointments are made. Road Works: Mendana Avenue asphalt works have reached new layers toward the Honiara City Council roundabout, with completion targeted for early August. Health & Tobacco: WHO and Solomon Islands Health Minister Morris Toiraena renewed calls to protect youth from tobacco marketing and “safer” nicotine products. Sports & Commonwealth Games: Team Solomon unveiled its 13-athlete Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games squad and named Naoyuki Fujiyama as new Chef de Mission. Education & Fisheries: SINU is reviewing its Bachelor of Fisheries Studies with industry input to better match practical sector needs. Infrastructure Ownership (Malaita): MID urged Malaita communities to maintain completed bridges and road upgrades and participate in future project planning.

Climate & Storytelling: Mark Ruffalo has joined Human Rights Watch to narrate “Solwata,” an immersive Venice Immersive documentary on Solomon Islands communities facing relocation pressures from sea-level rise. Sports (OFC U-16): Solomon Islands booked a semi-final spot after a 3-1 win over Tahiti, setting up a last-four clash with Fiji. Health (Tobacco): WHO and Health Minister Morris Toiraena renewed warnings that tobacco products and marketing tactics are targeting young people, with plans to strengthen tobacco control laws and enforcement. Community Water: New Zealand-backed water tanks have been handed over to 30 villages in Tasimboko ward, Guadalcanal, easing daily drinking-water shortages. Healthcare (Japan): Japan/JICA officially handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, urging long-term local maintenance and funding. Inclusive Sport: Tonga hosted the first Oceania Para Archery coaching course and OPAL competition, with Solomon Islands para-archers winning silver. Diplomacy: PM Matthew Wale is set to visit Washington D.C. and Tokyo to deepen ties with the US and Japan. Local Economy: CEMA’s “Farmer First” campaign is boosting rural cocoa and copra sales with faster payments and better market access. Transport (Solomon Airlines): A second twin otter is returning to improve domestic flight schedules after a period of disruption.

OFC U-16 Football: Solomon Islands booked a semi-final spot with a 3-1 win over Tahiti, setting up a last-four clash with Fiji after goals from George Lea’i and Jayer Makarani, with Tahiti replying through Esdras Jamet. Sports & Community: The Honiara Netball Association’s Round Six runs this week with 26 matches across Super, A, B and C divisions, while Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach visited a HookIn4Health hockey session to encourage young players. Health & Youth: WHO is calling for stronger tobacco controls in Solomon Islands, warning that flavoured products and industry marketing are targeting young people; Health Minister Morris Toiraena echoed the message ahead of World No Tobacco Day. Water & Health Services: New Zealand delivered 39 water tanks to 30 Tasimboko ward villages in Guadalcanal, and Japan/JICA handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, urging long-term maintenance. Local Economy: CEMA’s “Farmer First” campaign is boosting rural cocoa and copra sales with faster payments and better market access through local agents. Diplomacy: PM Matthew Wale is set to visit Washington and Tokyo, aiming to deepen ties with the US and Japan.

Tuna & Climate Pressures: Fisherfolk around Malaita say tuna stocks are shifting as warming seas change migration patterns, with local tools like fish aggregating devices helping communities cope. Regional Security Talk: Australia’s Pacific Minister says China’s submarine-launched nuclear-capable missile test damaged regional trust, strengthening calls for a Pacific-led security agreement. Health—Tobacco Crackdown: WHO and Solomon Islands Health Minister Morris Toiraena warn tobacco firms are targeting youth with flavoured and “safer” products, urging stronger laws and enforcement. Water for Guadalcanal: New Zealand-backed support delivered 39 water tanks to 30 villages in Tasimboko ward, easing daily water shortages for about 2,000 people. Healthcare Upgrade: Japan/JICA handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, stressing maintenance and local ownership for long-term service. Sport—OFC U-16: Solomon Islands booked OFC U-16 semi-finals after a 2-1 comeback win over Vanuatu, joining Fiji, PNG and New Zealand. Business & Rural Markets: CEMA’s Farmer First campaign is improving rural cocoa and copra buying with faster payments via local agents. PM Wale Overseas: Prime Minister Matthew Wale heads to Washington and Tokyo for talks to deepen partnerships, returning 26 July. Para Archery in Tonga: A regional para archery coaching course culminated in OPAL competition, with Solomon Islands winning silver. Domestic Flights: Solomon Airlines expects more normal schedules as a second twin otter returns from maintenance, while a Dash-8 repair is still pending.

Para Archery in the Pacific: Tonga hosted the first Oceania Para Archery Coaching Course and OPAL competition, bringing together coaches and para-athletes from Tonga, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu to build adaptive coaching skills and inclusive pathways. Prime Minister’s Overseas Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale will travel to Washington D.C. and Tokyo for official talks, aiming to deepen ties with the US and Japan before returning to Honiara on 26 July. Rural Economy Boost: CEMA’s Farmer First campaign is helping Simbo and Vella Lavella farmers with faster payments and better access to cocoa and copra markets through local buying agents. Airline Disruption Update: Solomon Airlines says the return of a second twin otter from maintenance should restore more normal domestic flight schedules, with further improvements hoped by late August. Sports—OFC U-16: Solomon Islands earned a 2-1 comeback win over Vanuatu to keep their OFC U-16 hopes alive, with semi-finals now set. Health—Kilufi Hospital Upgrade: Japan-funded upgrades to Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita were handed over, as leaders call for more investment after concerns about limited renovations across the province. Weather Alert: SIMS issued strong wind warning 83, urging mariners and coastal residents to prepare for rough seas and hazardous conditions.

Pacific Security: China’s submarine-launched ballistic missile test near the Solomon Islands has reignited calls for a Pacific-led security agreement, with peace groups warning the region must not become a proving ground for big powers. Marine Conservation: Solomon Islands has joined the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves (MOCOR), a push for a massive transboundary network of marine protected areas across Melanesia. Diplomacy: Papua New Guinea moves to close Taiwan’s representative office in Port Moresby, a move China praised and Taiwan condemned—another sign of shifting Pacific alignments. Local Governance: Judicial autonomy reform work continues as ministries align policy, legal and funding steps toward an independent judiciary. Sports: Solomon Islands’ Baby Bula Boys and U-16 side keep their campaigns alive—SI staged a 2-1 comeback win over Vanuatu to reach the OFC semi-finals. Health & Community: Japan hands over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, while New Zealand donates water tanks to Tasimboko Ward to ease drinking-water shortages. Business & Culture: A Solomon Islands vendor shares culture at Samoa’s Markets for Change women’s market expo. Weather: Strong wind warning 83 is in effect, with rough seas and hazardous conditions for small boats.

OFC U-16 Semis Set: Solomon Islands have joined Fiji, Papua New Guinea and defending champions New Zealand in the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship semi-finals in Port Moresby after a 2-1 comeback win over Vanuatu. Sports: Solomon’s comeback came after a missed penalty and a Vanuatu opener, with Greggy Gau equalising and George Lea’i scoring the winner just before half-time; New Zealand also booked their spot with a 6-1 win over Tahiti. PM Foreign Visits: Prime Minister Matthew Wale will travel to Washington D.C. and Tokyo, meeting U.S. officials and Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with a return home expected on 26 July. Judicial Autonomy Reform: The Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet says lead ministries have aligned efforts to advance judicial autonomy, including work on policy, legal and budget steps for an independent judiciary. Pacific Security Tensions: China’s ballistic missile test has intensified calls for a Pacific-led security agreement, with Australia’s Pat Conroy saying the launch damaged Beijing’s regional standing. Climate & Indigenous Voice: Indigenous leaders in Canberra told governments “no more tokenism” ahead of COP31, demanding Indigenous leadership be central to climate decisions. Health & Infrastructure: Malaita’s Kilufi Hospital upgrade was handed over with Japan/JICA funding, while Malaita Premier Asilaua warned many facilities have seen little renovation in recent years. Weather Alert: SIMS issued strong wind warning 83 for Solomon Islands waters, urging mariners and coastal residents to prepare for hazardous seas.

Prime Minister’s Overseas Push: Matthew Wale is set to travel to the United States and Japan on an eight-day visit, his first since taking office, as Solomon Islands seeks a balanced, independent foreign policy and stronger Pacific unity. Regional Diplomacy: Wale will also welcome Papua New Guinea PM James Marape to Honiara for official talks tied to church events and closer bilateral cooperation. Maritime Boundary Progress: Solomon Islands and PNG have advanced technical work on their maritime boundary treaty, reviewing the southern endpoint with support from the Pacific Community. China Ties and Missile Fallout: Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela met China’s Wang Yi in Beijing as both sides reaffirmed cooperation under the One-China principle, while China’s claim of “no geopolitical intent” behind a South Pacific missile test was rejected as “another falsehood” by critics. Politics and Justice: The Attorney-General responded to Opposition concerns over the Kalu v Attorney-General and JLSC matter, rejecting claims of political influence. Sports (OFC U-16): Solomon Islands fought back to beat Vanuatu 2-1, while Fiji and PNG booked OFC U-16 semi-final spots after commanding wins. Community and Health: Japan handed over upgraded Kilufi Hospital in Malaita, and RSIPF is investigating the burning of a dump truck at Belaha. Culture and Faith: Christafari begins a free concert tour across Solomon Islands, and a new poetry anthology, The Ocean Remembers, spotlights Pacific languages including Solomon Islands Pijin.

Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s foreign push: Wale will travel to the United States and Japan on an eight-day visit, starting this weekend, with meetings in Washington and talks in Tokyo with Japan’s prime minister. Regional diplomacy: Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea have advanced maritime boundary treaty work after a two-day technical and legal meeting in Honiara, supported by SPC. China ties under scrutiny: Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela met China’s Wang Yi in Beijing, with China reiterating “no geopolitical intent” and no “sphere of influence” claims after its missile test drew backlash across the Pacific. Politics and justice: The Attorney-General rejected Opposition claims over the Kalu v Attorney-General matter, while the Opposition raised concerns about JLSC independence and whether advice to settle came from government direction. Rennell bauxite probe: Former PM Manasseh Sogavare may be questioned as investigators review records from 2017 onward in the Rennell Island bauxite shipment investigation. Security in Central Guadalcanal: RSIPF is investigating arson linked to a burning dump truck at Belaha, and police patrols have been stepped up after a string of incidents. Health upgrade in Malaita: Japan handed over the upgraded Kilufi Hospital, with Malaita leaders saying it will reduce referrals and improve emergency and outpatient services. Sports & community: Solomon Islands came from behind to beat Vanuatu 2-1 in OFC U-16; Christafari returns for free concerts; and a Christafari-led gospel tour begins in Noro before moving to Auki and Honiara.

Pacific Tourism & Livelihoods: Experts urge Kiwis to travel better as borders reopen, stressing sustainable tourism that fits Pacific culture and community needs. Agribusiness Exports: Fiji’s Food Processors is hunting new export markets and exploring fresh/frozen produce sales, including possible links to Solomon Islands. China Missile Fallout: China’s FM Wang Yi told Solomon Islands’ Rick Houenipwela Beijing has “no geopolitical intentions” and no “sphere of influence,” after a submarine-launched nuclear-capable missile test drew regional condemnation. Climate Storytelling: Human Rights Watch and Mark Ruffalo will premiere immersive documentary “Solwata” at Venice, focusing on Solomon Islands communities facing relocation from sea-level rise. Healthcare Upgrade: Japan/JICA officially handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, adding new wards, theatres, imaging and emergency services. Local Governance & Justice: Opposition raises concerns over Attorney-General advice in a JLSC court matter, while police step up patrols in Belaha after break-ins and suspected arson. Domestic Flights Disruption: Solomon Airlines says maintenance issues leave it with only one Twin Otter, causing cancellations and passenger complaints. Agriculture Support: Village farmers in East Central Guadalcanal received SIART support to build pineapple processing capacity. Public Service Reform: MPS drafts new Public Service Regulations and Orders after consultations in provinces. Independence Planning: SINU VC Dr Transform Aqorau calls for a national debate ahead of the 50th Independence anniversary in 2028.