AFP – Australia said yesterday it had agreed to boost Solomon Islands’ police force with a multi-year funding, training and infrastructure package for the Pacific nation.
The Australian deal – valued at AUD190 million (USD118 million) over four years – will include the construction of a new police training centre in the Solomons’ capital Honiara, Canberra said.
It represents a “new foundation for Australia’s security partnership with the Solomon Islands”, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told a news conference. “What we have done is ensure that Australia remains the security partner of choice,” he said. Albanese said he sealed the agreement after discussions with Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
Albanese said his country was proud to make a “significant investment” in the Solomons police.
“This partnership will strengthen the Solomon Islands domestic security, but it will also enhance its ability to contribute to regional stability,” Albanese said.
