Release details
Release type
Related ministers and contacts
The Hon Richard Marles MP
Deputy Prime Minister
Minister for Defence
Media contact
Release content
28 June 2023
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, will visit Honiara, Solomon Islands this week.
Australia and Solomon Islands are enduring partners. With shared values and deep connections, our future prosperity and security is closely linked.
In Honiara, the Deputy Prime Minister will see examples of our security and sustainable development partnership. This will include meeting Australian and Pacific personnel deployed within the regional Solomons International Assistance Force (SIAF).
The SIAF demonstrates that when the Pacific family works together, we can respond to the peace and security needs of our region.
During his visit, the Deputy Prime Minister will meet Solomon Islands Prime Minister the Hon Manasseh Sogavare and a wide range of Government and community leaders.
The visit reaffirms Australia’s commitment to working with Solomon Islands to achieve shared goals, including mitigating the effects of climate change and enhancing our collective maritime security.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP:
“I look forward to visiting Solomon Islands for the first time in my capacity as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence.”
“This visit will build on the long-standing partnership between our two nations, shaped by enduring connections, shared values and our joint efforts towards a secure and prosperous Pacific region.”
“Our partnership is more important than ever. That is why we will continue to ensure Australia’s engagement across all sectors – including on jobs, health and security - is responsive to Solomon Islands’ needs and fit-for-purpose.”