Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has met with Dr. Fahad Al Taffaq, the United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Australia, in a bid to deepen ties and explore new avenues of cooperation between Solomon Islands and the UAE.
During talks in Honiara, Manele shared updates on the Bina Harbour project, describing it as a transformational initiative for the nation. Although the project has faced delays, he said the government remained confident it would be completed within this parliamentary term and was actively seeking investors.
“We are committed to advancing projects like Bina Harbour that will drive sustainable economic growth and create jobs for our people,” Manele said. “Our partnership with the UAE opens doors for investment and collaboration that will benefit our countries.”
The two leaders discussed broadening economic links, including the potential signing of an air services agreement. The UAE signalled its readiness to proceed but is awaiting formal communication from Solomon Islands.
Manele also addressed Solomon Islands’ postponed engagement with Pacific Islands Forum dialogue partners, voicing hope for renewed discussions soon.
Ambassador Al Taffaq outlined some of the UAE’s regional priorities, including waste management and land reclamation. He said the UAE hopes to appoint a new special envoy to the Pacific but will do so only after the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat completes its ongoing review of regional architecture.
“The UAE is committed to supporting Solomon Islands and the Pacific region through partnerships that address shared challenges and opportunities,” Al Taffaq said. “We look forward to working closely with the Solomon Islands government to realise these goals.”
Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding cooperation across economic, environmental and diplomatic fronts.
