AGP Executive Report

Coalition vs Government in court: Solomon Islands Attorney General John Muria Jnr says the new Coalition’s legal challenge is a “futile exercise,” arguing it has “no reasonable cause of action” and failed due process, as the High Court resumes Friday after an adjournment to prepare both a strike-out bid and the main claim. Extractives integrity row: Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare urges Attorney General Gabriel Suri to step aside from APID-related matters as investigations begin into 33 bauxite shipments from West Rennell, citing conflict-of-interest concerns. Aviation upgrade: Work on Honiara International Airport’s Aviation Complex Building is nearing completion, with the external façade installed and access road works about 80% done under the World Bank-funded SIRAP2 project. Sports and youth: World Cup fever hit Honiara with an alcohol-free fan parade; in Malaita, the Kwaibaita Football League officially opened with 22 teams; and SINU student Kevin Olea won the university council seat. Governance and transparency: UNDP and the British High Commission ran training for civil society on EITI extractives transparency, while UNDP reaffirmed support for governance, elections and climate-resilient development. Regional security debate: PM Matthew Wale says the China security pact will remain secret due to a non-disclosure clause, even as he promises more transparency for future agreements.

China Security Pact: Solomon Islands’ new PM Matthew Wale says the China security agreement will stay secret because of a legally binding non-disclosure clause, even as he promises more transparency and stronger parliamentary oversight for future treaties. Labour Mobility: Wale also signals an end to PALM and RSE labour mobility schemes, saying the country needs to create jobs and opportunities at home. Governance & Extractives: UNDP and the British High Commission ran training for civil society on EITI implementation, while UNDP reaffirmed support for governance, electoral strengthening and climate resilience. Aviation Upgrade: Work on Honiara International Airport’s Aviation Complex Building is nearing completion, with major façade and access-road progress reported. Sports & Community: World Cup fever hit Honiara with an alcohol-free fan parade; meanwhile, Malaita’s Kwaibaita Football League opened and a Healthy Lifestyle sports programme brought ministries together. Cyclone Maila Recovery: Government estimates about $150m is needed for recovery, including health, education, livelihoods and shelter. Regional Justice: PNG and Solomon Islands signed a MoU to strengthen prosecution services, including financial crime, corruption, cybercrime and family violence.

China Security Pact: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says the 2022 security agreement with China will stay secret, citing a legally binding non-disclosure clause, while he also signals future moves toward more parliamentary oversight for any new security deals. Labour Mobility: Wale also says his government plans to phase out the Pacific Australian Labour Mobility (PALM) and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) schemes over the next couple of years to boost local jobs and cut youth unemployment. Cyclone Maila Recovery: Government estimates put recovery needs at about $150 million, with priorities including health, education, livelihoods, and housing after the cyclone’s damage. Minimum Wage Review: SICCI urges a data-driven minimum wage review, warning that any changes must reflect both workers’ cost of living and businesses’ ability to absorb higher labour costs. Rural Development: North Guadalcanal receives 13 trucks to strengthen economic zones and help farmers move produce to markets, supported by China and Solomon Islands funding. Community & Sport: Hook in4Health brings hockey and leadership activities to North East Guadalcanal, while youth futsal development continues with a new school of excellence in Honiara. Food Security: KGA and Solomon Tobacco distribute 35,000 vegetable seedlings in Honiara to improve nutrition and support small-scale income.

China Security Pact Secrecy: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says the 2022 China security agreement will stay secret because a non-disclosure clause is legally binding, even as he signals future security deals should face stronger parliamentary oversight. Labour Mobility: Wale also says his government will phase out the Pacific Australian Labour Mobility (PALM) and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) schemes over the next couple of years to focus on local jobs and youth opportunities. Minimum Wage Review: The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry urges a data-driven minimum wage review, warning any changes must reflect both workers’ cost of living and business capacity. Rural Transport Boost: North Guadalcanal has received 13 trucks for its economic zones, while Malaita’s Trades Transportation Company starts a 5km tar-sealed road from Kwaibala to Oibola. Community & Health: WHO launched a new manual to help health workers tackle antimicrobial resistance, and Hook in4Health brings hockey to North East Guadalcanal schools to promote healthy living and leadership. Sports Update: Tahiti withdraws from the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship in Solomon Islands, with Papua New Guinea taking the replacement spot in Group B. Culture & Food Security: NATPAN organisers say festival benefits will be shared directly with host families and communities, and KGA with Solomon Tobacco distributes 35,000 vegetable seedlings to boost household food security.

China Security Pact: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says the 2022 China security agreement will stay secret, citing a legally binding non-disclosure clause. Labour Mobility: Wale also signals the end of PALM and RSE labour mobility schemes, saying the focus must shift to jobs and opportunities at home. Minimum Wage Review: SICCI urges a data-driven minimum wage review, warning any increase must reflect both workers’ cost of living and business capacity. Regional Justice Cooperation: PNG and Solomon Islands signed a prosecution services partnership to build capacity in financial crime, corruption, cybercrime, and family and sexual violence cases. Sports & Youth: OFC Pro League funding is secured for three more years; PNG’s U-16 women’s team enters after Tahiti withdrew, with Solomon Islands in Group A; and Solomon Islands U23 3×3 teams depart for New Caledonia with World Cup qualification on the line. Food & Livelihoods: KGA and Solomon Tobacco distributed 35,000+ vegetable seedlings to boost household nutrition and small-scale income. Road Safety: MID warns Honiara road users about ongoing Mendana Avenue works and asks for patience and respect for traffic controllers.

Security & Governance: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale says future international security deals will be more transparent, with stronger parliamentary oversight—though the 2022 China pact stays secret due to a legally binding non-disclosure clause. Regional Nuclear Policy: Pacific states reaffirm their nuclear-free stance as the Rarotonga Treaty marks 40 years, with Solomon’s high commissioner chairing the anniversary meeting. Minimum Wage & Business Costs: SICCI urges a data-driven minimum wage review, warning any changes must reflect both workers’ cost of living and businesses’ ability to absorb higher labour costs. Cyclone Recovery & Agriculture: CEMA continues “farmers first” support after Cyclone Maila, backing copra recovery and other livelihood needs. Food Security: Kastom Gaden Association and Solomon Tobacco distribute 35,000+ vegetable seedlings in Honiara to boost nutrition and small-scale income. Honiara Roads: MID warns road users about ongoing Mendana Avenue roadworks and asks for patience and respect toward traffic controllers. Sports & Youth: SINU students vote today for a student representative; meanwhile Solomon’s U-23 3×3 teams head to New Caledonia and weightlifter Jenly Wini begins an Australia camp ahead of the Commonwealth Games. Corruption Watch: Wale warns officials suspected of corruption or misuse of funds will be removed.

Security & Governance: Solomon Islands PM Mathew Wale says future international security agreements will be negotiated with greater transparency and stronger parliamentary oversight, but the 2022 China pact will stay secret because of a legally binding non-disclosure clause. Regional Peace & Nuclear Policy: Pacific states reaffirmed their nuclear-free stance as the Rarotonga Treaty marked 40 years, with Solomon Islands’ High Commissioner Joseph Ma’ahanua chairing a key meeting in Suva. Regional Diplomacy: Wale says Bougainville independence may be discussed in talks with Papua New Guinea PM James Marape later this year. Minimum Wage: The SICCI is urging a data-driven minimum wage review, while the ILO and the Labour Division run a three-day workshop to strengthen how wages are set and reviewed. China Pact Fallout: AFP reports Wale’s office confirms the China security agreement cannot be publicly disclosed due to legal restrictions. Sports & Youth: PNG’s U-16 women’s team enters late for the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship after Tahiti withdrew; meanwhile Solomon Islands U-23 3×3 teams depart for New Caledonia with U23 World Cup qualification at stake. Infrastructure & Services: UNICEF’s WASH work in North Guadalcanal is improving access to safe water and sanitation. Business & Compliance: SICCI also calls for stronger compliance and better data collection as the minimum wage process moves forward.

New Zealand–Solomon Islands Reset: Solomon Islands’ new PM Matthew Wale is in New Zealand for talks with Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, with both sides stressing stronger Pacific partnerships, development and climate resilience, and a push for accountability in Honiara. Australia–Solomon Security and Budget Support: Australia says it will boost police deployments in Solomon Islands with AUD 46 million in next week’s budget, while leaders in Canberra also outline a new comprehensive strategic treaty framework and expanded police cooperation. Minimum Wage Review: The Labour Division has started province-wide surveys to reset the national minimum wage, with analysis to follow using Solomon Islands National Statistics Office and ILO support. Roadworks Reminder in Honiara: MID urges drivers and pedestrians to cooperate and obey signs around Mendana Avenue roadworks after an incident involving a traffic controller. Coral Triangle LNG Concern: A global coalition says most major insurers have not ruled out LNG coverage in the Coral Triangle, including the Solomon Islands, despite biodiversity risks. Community Water Progress: UNICEF-supported WASH work in North Guadalcanal is improving access to safe water and sanitation, reducing daily hardship for families. Sports and Youth: U23 3×3 teams depart for New Caledonia with World Cup qualification at stake; Western Province netball and Papapi Technical School graduation highlight ongoing grassroots pathways. Governance and Resources: Investigations begin into 33 controversial bauxite shipments from Rennell, while the Opposition urges Australian recovery funding to be spent wisely and transparently.

Road Safety in Honiara: The Ministry of Infrastructure Development is urging patience and respect for traffic controllers during ongoing Mendana Avenue roadworks after a pedestrian slapped a controller last Friday. New Zealand–Solomon Islands Reset: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale is in New Zealand for talks with PM Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, with a focus on development, climate resilience, and rebuilding trust. Sports Pathways: Solomon Islands’ U23 men’s and women’s 3×3 basketball teams have departed for New Caledonia, with the winner earning U23 World Cup qualification. Labour Watch: A three-day workshop on minimum wage setting is underway in Honiara as the Labour Division reviews the national minimum wage after years of delays. Corruption and Accountability: Opposition says Australia’s AUD 35m direct budget support must be spent wisely and transparently, while PM Wale warns officials suspected of corruption will be removed. Mining Probe: Investigations have begun into 33 controversial bauxite shipments from Rennell, with the government promising stronger oversight. Community Support: WWF held its quarterly meeting for community facilitators across seascape regions, and UNICEF-backed WASH work is improving clean water and sanitation in North Guadalcanal. Regional Security Talks: Australia and Solomon Islands are advancing deeper security cooperation, including a proposed strategic treaty and policing partnership next steps.

Australia–Solomon Islands Security Reset: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met Anthony Albanese in Canberra to signal a “reset” built on mutual trust, with both sides agreeing to negotiate a comprehensive strategic treaty and deepen police cooperation. Anti-Corruption Push: Wale told a community meeting in New Zealand he has already terminated some officials and will remove more over suspected corruption or misuse of public funds. China Security Pact Review: Wale also confirmed Solomon Islands will review its 2022 security pact with China, while Cabinet will handle the non-disclosed terms. Police Funding Boost: Australia says it will allocate AUD$46 million for police deployments in Solomon Islands in next week’s budget. Mining Oversight: Investigations have begun into 33 controversial bauxite shipments from Rennell, led by the Attorney General’s Chambers with Mines Division support. Minimum Wage Workshop: A three-day ILO workshop on minimum wage setting starts in Honiara to strengthen fair, transparent wage-setting systems. Clean Water in North Guadalcanal: UNICEF-backed WASH work is improving safe water and sanitation in communities including Popoloi, Mbebe and Bubulu. Honiara Water Upgrade: Solomon Water reports major progress on new reservoirs at Tasahe, Titinge and Panatina. Regional Safety Alert: Tsunami advisories after a 7.8 Mindanao earthquake include Solomon Islands, with coastal agencies urged to follow local procedures. Sports & Youth: Chess registrations open for the Sir Peter Kenilorea Independence championship; SINU launched its 2026 soccer league to develop student talent.

Australia–Solomons Security: Australia will set aside AUD$46m for police deployments in Solomon Islands, as Canberra pushes a stronger security and budget-support role in the Pacific amid China’s growing presence. Anti-Corruption Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale says officials suspected of corruption or misuse of public funds will be removed, warning logging and resource sectors will face tougher action. China Pact Review: Wale also confirmed Solomon Islands will review its 2022 security pact with China, while stressing the country’s sovereign interests and ongoing talks with Australia. EU Investment Focus: The EU reaffirmed support for Solomon Islands and signalled more investment-driven cooperation, including backing discussions around Bina Harbour. Water and Health: UNICEF reports clean-water and sanitation upgrades in North Guadalcanal communities, while Solomon Water moves into testing for new Honiara reservoirs. Mines Probe: Government investigations have begun into 33 controversial bauxite shipments from Rennell. Jobs and Wages: An ILO workshop starts on setting a three-day minimum wage framework. Regional Alert: Tsunami advisories remain in place across parts of the Pacific after a 7.8 Philippines earthquake, including Solomon Islands. Weather: SIMS issues a strong wind warning for several southern and central waters.

Cybercrime & Justice: Pacific legal experts meeting in Fiji are finalising a regional handbook to help countries strengthen cybercrime laws and protect digital borders, with Solomon Islands represented. Disaster Preparedness: After a powerful 7.8 quake off Mindanao, tsunami advisories are in force across parts of the Pacific including Solomon Islands, while New Zealand says there’s no tsunami threat to it. Government & Health: Acting PM Francis Sade visited the NRH Children’s Ward, pledging better care for vulnerable children under the GREAT Coalition. War Remains: The U.S. Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency and Solomon Islands signed an MOU to support recovery and repatriation of WWII remains. Opposition Claims: Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare says the PM misled the public on gold dealer licence cancellations, arguing no lawful process has been followed. Weather Warnings: SIMS issued strong wind warnings for several provinces and urged sea travellers to take extreme care. EU Development Focus: EU officials say projects like renewable energy and Honiara water upgrades are building climate resilience, and they remain confident EU-funded work won’t slow after the new government.

Tsunami Watch: A powerful 7.7 quake struck off Mindanao, triggering tsunami alerts across parts of Asia and Pacific monitoring, with advisories listing Solomon Islands among areas under watch as agencies urge coastal communities to stay alert and follow local instructions. Disaster Response: Philippines authorities say emergency agencies are activated and evacuation orders issued in affected provinces, while regional partners keep coastal monitoring systems on alert. Weather Hazard: Solomon Islands Meteorological Service issued a strong wind warning for Rennell and Bellona, southern Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russell Islands, warning sea travellers and communities to prepare for rough seas and poor visibility. EU Development Push: The EU says its renewable energy and water/sanitation work is strengthening Solomon Islands climate resilience, and insists EU projects will not slow despite the new government. Malaita Fisheries Plan: EU officials highlighted the proposed Bina Harbour tuna processing plant as a potential jobs and economic boost for Malaita, stressing implementation and partners matter. Education & Inclusion: UNICEF reports WASH upgrades in dozens of schools reaching over 12,000 students, while a “Play for Equity” para sport program supports disability inclusion through sport and leadership training. New Leadership Diplomacy: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale is set to visit New Zealand soon for talks with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, as ties and a new Australia treaty agenda take shape.

New Zealand–Solomon Islands diplomacy: Solomon Islands’ new PM Matthew Wale will visit New Zealand next week to meet Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, with Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela and Education Minister Stephen Kumi also expected to travel, as Wellington and Honiara look to reset and deepen cooperation early in the new administration. Regional security and policy shift: Wale’s push to review the 2022 China security pact and pursue a new treaty with Australia continues to shape how partners read Honiara’s foreign policy direction. Education support in West Makira: Minister Derrick Manu’ari’s constituency backed 53 students with 41 laptops and 12 smartphones to boost digital learning, funded through the West Makira CDF education allocation. Weather alert for Solomon Islands waters: The Meteorological Service issued a strong wind warning for several provinces, with winds of 20–25 knots and rough seas expected over the next 24–48 hours. Court case update: Trial dates have been set for three people accused of stealing about $2 million in beche-de-mer and cash, with the hearing scheduled from August 31 to September 11. Fisheries and EU market access: Pacific fisheries authorities in Suva trained national competent authorities on new EU freezer-vessel food-safety rules that could affect 97% of EU-listed Pacific vessels exporting to the bloc. Women and youth focus at Forum meeting: Solomon Islands’ Minister John Maneniaru urged Pacific leaders to put women, youth and vulnerable communities at the centre of responses to rising fuel costs, conflict impacts and climate pressures. Community environment push: Honiara launched a week-long clean-up campaign tied to World Environment Day, targeting coastal litter blamed on poor inland waste management. Sports and athlete welfare: SINIS welcomed a Japanese JICA physiotherapy volunteer to strengthen rehabilitation and injury prevention for national athletes.

Solomon Islands–New Zealand ties: New PM Matthew Wale is set to visit New Zealand next week for talks with Christopher Luxon, with meetings also expected with Winston Peters and time with the Solomon Islands community in NZ—an early signal of how the new leadership wants to reset regional engagement. China security pact review: Multiple reports this week say Wale plans to review the 2022 security pact with China and pursue a new treaty approach with Australia, as Canberra and Honiara deepen cooperation. Weather alert: The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service issued a strong wind warning for several provinces, with 20–25 knot winds and rough seas expected over the next 24–48 hours. Court case: Honiara’s Central Magistrate’s Court set trial dates for three people accused in a stolen beche-de-mer and cash case worth about $2 million. EU seafood rules: Fisheries officials in Suva trained on new EU freezer-vessel requirements that could affect 97% of EU-listed Pacific vessels, raising pressure on compliance for tuna exports. Education support: West Makira gifted 41 laptops and 12 smartphones to students to boost digital learning, funded through its constituency development allocation. WASH and environment: UNICEF and MASI wrapped up a WASH media workshop with field visits, while Honiara launched a week-long coastal clean-up campaign tied to World Environment Day. Sports and youth: SIFF shortlisted 40+ young footballers after U-19 trials, and SINIS welcomed a JICA physiotherapy volunteer to strengthen athlete rehabilitation and injury prevention.

China Security Reset: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale begins a first visit to Australia since taking office, saying he will review the 2022 “secretive” China security pact as Canberra and Honiara move toward a new comprehensive strategic treaty focused on regional security and development. Regional Security & Trade: Australia and Solomon Islands also reaffirm Pacific-led cooperation through the Pacific Islands Forum, while Forum foreign ministers back a new regional response mechanism to manage economic and security risks from the Middle East crisis. EU Seafood Rules: Fisheries officials from Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu train in Suva on tougher EU freezer-vessel requirements that could affect 97% of EU-listed Pacific vessels, with compliance tied to colder freezing standards. Energy & Costs: A Pacific business update flags fuel price pressure across the region, with Solomon Islands keeping its diesel cap mostly steady while warnings point to inflation risks linked to energy costs. Local Governance & Justice: Honiara’s Central Magistrate’s Court sets Aug 31–Sep 11 for trial of three people accused of stealing about $2m in beche-de-mer and cash. Weather: Solomon Islands Meteorological Service issues a strong wind warning for several provinces, urging sea travellers and communities to prepare for rough seas and poor visibility. Sports & Youth: Rewa FC signs Solomon Islands midfielder Don Keana for Fiji competitions; SIFF advances over 40 players after U-19 trials, while SINIS welcomes a JICA physiotherapy volunteer to support athlete rehab and injury prevention. Environment & Community: Honiara launches a week-long coastal clean-up tied to World Environment Day, linking shoreline pollution to inland waste management; UNICEF and MASI wrap up a WASH media workshop with field visits to communities improving water and sanitation. Culture: Tourism Solomons signs on as a major sponsor for “Aelan Riddim 26” in Honiara.