AGP Executive Report

US–Solomons ties: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met U.S. 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, alongside a new US$6m pledge to expand WWII unexploded ordnance removal. Maritime security: Wale also backed a ship-rider deal for U.S. Coast Guard patrols with local police aboard, with the agreement due to be signed in Honiara next week. Pacific security tensions: China’s nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific continues to draw regional backlash, with Australia calling it “destabilising” and noting many Pacific states share “strong concerns.” Economy & regulation: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo ordered immediate enforcement of a 15% export duty on alluvial gold and gold concentrates under HS2022. Parliament & governance: Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare renewed calls for PM Wale to disclose the number and cost of political appointees, alleging the count has risen to over 70. Business & energy: The Private Sector Advisory Group held its first 2026 meeting, with SICCI pushing for urgent SME Bill action and Electricity Act amendments. Climate diplomacy: Solomon Islands Environment Minister Wayne Ghemu urged Pacific unity ahead of COP31 as climate ministers met in Sydney. Public finance oversight: Auditor General Bill 2026 consultations began, aiming to strengthen the independence and powers of the Office of the Auditor General.

U.S.-Solomon Ties: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Washington, signing a letter of intent to return the Peace Corps to Solomon Islands after more than 25 years, alongside talks on investment and a new US$6m push to expand clearance of World War II unexploded ordnance. Maritime Security: Wale also backed a new “ship rider” deal for U.S. Coast Guard patrols in Solomon waters with local police aboard, to tackle drug trafficking, people smuggling and illegal fishing. Gold Revenue Move: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo ordered Customs to enforce a 15% export duty on alluvial gold and gold concentrates immediately under HS2022. Parliament & Cost of Living: MPs approved a second pay rise in two years via amended 2026 Parliamentary Entitlements Regulations, lifting PM Wale’s salary to SBD454,659.43. Opposition Push on Appointments: Manasseh Sogavare demanded Wale disclose the number and total cost of political appointees. Public Finance Oversight: The Auditor General Bill 2026 is under consultation to strengthen the OAG’s independence and powers. Infrastructure Leadership: MID congratulated acting Permanent Secretary Mike Qaqara, while road works in Auki town progress toward asphalt layers. Climate Agenda: Environment Minister Wayne Ghemu urged Pacific unity ahead of COP31, as climate ministers advanced a shared regional plan.

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 after more than 25 years, and the US pledged US$6m to expand clearance of unexploded World War II ordnance. Maritime security: Wale also backed a new “ship rider” arrangement for US Coast Guard patrols in Solomon Islands waters, with local police aboard, to tackle drug trafficking, human trafficking and illegal fishing. Regional security backdrop: Australia raised concerns with China over its submarine-launched nuclear-capable missile test in the Pacific, echoing “strong concerns” from Pacific nations. Domestic governance: MPs approved a second pay rise in two years under amended 2026 Parliamentary Entitlements Regulations, taking effect 1 April 2026. Public services & development: Infrastructure updates included completion of the Riffle Range roundabout upgrade and ongoing road works in Auki, while climate ministers met to prepare for major regional and global talks. Business & community: Tourism leaders launched “Tok Stori” to boost collaboration and sustainable visitor growth, and SICCI warned security incidents in Belaha could hit tourism and SMEs.

Maritime Security Pivot: 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—an apparent shift after the 2022 China security pact. Parliament & Cost of Living: MPs have approved a second pay rise in two years, with amended 2026 Parliamentary Entitlements Regulations taking effect 1 April; ordinary MPs now earn SBD288,615.02 annually, reigniting debate as households face rising costs. Opposition Demands Transparency: The Official Opposition urges Wale to disclose the number and total cost of political appointments, arguing taxpayers deserve value-for-money clarity. Climate Policy Push: Pacific climate ministers meet ahead of major regional and global talks, with Solomon Islands’ environment minister briefing for Talanoa and COP31 alignment. Public Service Capacity: Twenty senior officials from 14 agencies complete a Mini MBA in Brisbane, backed by Australia, as part of leadership and governance strengthening. Infrastructure Updates: Road works continue in Honiara and Malaita, including bitumen spraying and prime coat on Auki town’s 9.2km corridor and progress on the Riffle Range roundabout upgrade. Health & Development: Japan hands over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, stressing local ownership and maintenance; meanwhile, a mini solar power project is completed across 25 constituencies. Diplomacy Watch: PNG closes Taiwan’s trade mission in Port Moresby under One China policy, underscoring the wider Pacific diplomatic balancing act.

US–Solomon Islands Maritime Security: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met U.S. Coast Guard Vice Commandant Admiral Thomas G. Allan Jr. in Washington, with talks focused on maritime security and a Ship Rider Agreement due next week in Honiara to boost joint surveillance and enforcement against drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal fishing. PM Travel & Diplomacy: Wale also confirmed a wider push to deepen ties, with meetings planned in Washington and then Tokyo, where Japan will accord him a guard of honour. Security & Local Business Impact: The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) condemned attacks in Belaha, Central Guadalcanal, warning that insecurity is hitting tourism and SMEs and urging RSIPF to restore law and order fast. Infrastructure Delivery: In Honiara, Mendana Avenue asphalt works are advancing under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project, with completion targeted for early August; Malaita communities were also urged to take ownership of completed road upgrades. Public Service Appointments: Three Acting Permanent Secretaries were sworn in—MPNSCS, MID, and MHMS—until substantive appointments are made. Energy & Climate Action: MECDM says Phase 1 of a Mini Solar Power Project is complete across 25 constituencies, with systems installed and verified nationwide. Governance & Education: SINU released a Strategic Leadership Overview report and is reviewing its Bachelor of Fisheries Studies to better match industry needs. Health & Regulation: The Health Minister warned against tobacco industry tactics targeting youth, including claims that e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches are safer. Community Water Projects: CDF-funded water supply was handed over to Niu Ples community, and New Zealand supported water tanks for Tasimboko ward villages.

Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Water Delivery: MP Rick Hou handed over a $300,000 Niu Ples water supply project in Small Malaita, including a catchment dam, pipelines, storage tank base and community standpipes, urging residents to take ownership for long-term maintenance. Renewables & Climate Resilience: MECDM says Phase 1 of the Mini Solar Power Project is complete, with solar systems installed and verified across 25 constituencies nationwide under a China Embassy–MECDM–Ever Exceed SI partnership, and Phase 2 set to begin. Honiara Roads Upgrade: Asphalt works on Mendana Avenue continue toward the Honiara City Council roundabout under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (ADB co-funding), with MID warning of traffic delays and urging motorists to follow site instructions. Public Service Leadership: Three Acting Permanent Secretaries were sworn in—Julia Twumasi (Police), Mike Qaqara (Infrastructure), and Dr Gregory Loki Jilin (Health)—until substantive appointments are made. University Governance: SINU outlined progress and priorities in a Strategic Leadership Overview, including its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, accreditation steps, programme reviews and financial reforms. Fisheries Training Alignment: SINU is reviewing its Bachelor of Fisheries Studies after stakeholder input to better match industry needs and strengthen hands-on learning. Health Protection: The Health Minister warned against tobacco industry “new products” targeting youth, saying e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches are not cessation tools. Infrastructure Ownership Push (Malaita): MID urged Malaita communities to maintain newly completed bridges and road upgrades, and to engage in awareness sessions for upcoming works. Diplomacy Ahead: PM Matthew Wale will visit Washington and Tokyo, with meetings expected to deepen cooperation with the US and Japan. Sports & National Representation: Team Solomon unveiled 13 athletes for Glasgow 2026 and named a new Chef de Mission after a leadership change.

Pacific Security: China’s submarine-launched nuclear-capable missile test near the Solomon Islands has sparked fresh calls for a Pacific-led security agreement, with Pacific leaders and peace groups warning the region is being pulled into great-power competition. Diplomacy & China-Taiwan: Papua New Guinea moved to close Taiwan’s Port Moresby trade and economic office, a move China praised and the US said signals Beijing’s intimidation—another pressure point for Melanesian diplomacy. PM Engagements: Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set to travel to Washington and Tokyo, aiming to deepen ties with the US and Japan ahead of his return on 26 July. Judicial Autonomy: Government ministries and legal bodies met to advance judicial autonomy reforms, focusing on aligning policy, legal and budget steps for an independent judiciary. Health & Water: Japan handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, while New Zealand delivered 39 water tanks to Tasimboko villages—both tied to long-term service and maintenance needs. Tobacco Control: The Health Minister warned the tobacco industry is targeting youth with “safer” products that still drive addiction, pledging stronger enforcement and a Tobacco Act review. Rural Economy: CEMA’s “Farmer First” push is improving cocoa and copra market access and payments, with local agents expanding direct buying. Transport Reliability: Solomon Airlines says a second twin otter has returned to restore domestic schedules, after weeks of disruption.

Pacific Security Shock: China’s submarine-launched ballistic missile test on 6 July has triggered fresh diplomatic pushback, with the U.S. saying it’s “deeply concerned” after Papua New Guinea moved to close Taiwan’s representative trade office in Port Moresby, a move analysts link to Beijing’s wider pressure amid new Australia–Fiji security pacts. Regional Governance: Solomon Islands’ judicial autonomy reform work continues, with lead ministries aligning policy, legal and budget steps to support an independent judiciary. PM Engagements: Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set to travel to Washington and Tokyo, aiming to deepen ties with the U.S. and Japan, and returning on 26 July. Health & Community Services: Japan’s JICA handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, while Malaita leaders urged sustained maintenance and investment; separately, New Zealand funded 39 water tanks across Tasimboko ward to ease drinking-water shortages. Public Health Policy: Health Minister Morris Toiraena warned the tobacco industry against targeting youth, including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, and flagged plans to strengthen tobacco control and review the Tobacco Act. Rural Economy: CEMA’s “Farmers First” campaign is boosting cocoa and copra sales through local agents and faster payments, with reported gains in market access and village cash flow. Transport Reliability: Solomon Airlines’ domestic service is expected to stabilize as a second twin otter returns from maintenance, though the Dash-8 remains a gap. Sports: Solomon Islands booked an OFC U-16 semi-final spot with a 3-1 win over Tahiti, setting up a last-four meeting with Fiji.

Prime Minister’s overseas push: PM Matthew Wale will depart Honiara this Sunday for official visits to Washington D.C. and Tokyo, meeting US and Japanese counterparts to deepen cooperation; he’s expected back on 26 July. Judicial autonomy drive: OPMC says ministries and the judiciary have aligned next steps for judicial autonomy reforms, aiming for an independent but accountable judiciary. Health and infrastructure: Japan’s JICA has formally handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, while Malaita Premier Elija Asilaua warns many facilities haven’t been renovated for years. Tobacco control: Health Minister Morris Toiraena warns the tobacco industry is targeting youth with “safer” products, urging stronger enforcement and a review of the Tobacco Act. Rural water and services: New Zealand funded 39 water tanks for 30 Tasimboko villages, and MRD reports East Choiseul’s 2025 CDP rollout delivered fisheries, solar and water support. Agriculture and cashflow: CEMA’s “Farmer First” campaign says faster payments and better market access are improving cocoa and copra livelihoods. Transport reliability: Solomon Airlines expects more normal domestic schedules after the second twin otter returns from maintenance, with the Dash-8 still pending. Regional security backdrop: China’s submarine-launched missile test has renewed calls for a Pacific-led security agreement, while peace groups urge leaders to resist militarisation.

Prime Minister’s Overseas Push: Matthew Wale will depart Honiara this Sunday for official visits to Washington, D.C. and Tokyo, meeting US State Department and key agencies and then Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi, with a return expected on 26 July. Rural Market Support: CEMA’s “Farmer First” campaign is boosting cocoa and copra sales in Simbo and Vella Lavella, with agents buying directly from producers and reporting faster cash payments and better access to markets. Domestic Air Travel Disruption: Solomon Airlines says the return of a second twin otter from maintenance should ease recent schedule problems caused by operating with only one aircraft, while the Dash-8 repair is still pending. Judicial Autonomy Work: OPMC convened a meeting with Justice and Legal Affairs, the judiciary and Finance to advance judicial autonomy reforms, aligning policy, legal and budget steps for an independent judiciary. Constituency Delivery: East Choiseul has completed its 2025 Constituency Development Programme, including water tanks, solar sets, ice-making and outboard engines for fisheries and income activities. Health Infrastructure Upgrade: Japan-funded upgrades to Kilu’u’fi Hospital in Malaita were handed over, as provincial leaders also warned that most facilities have seen little or no renovation in recent years. Regional Security Debate: Pacific peace groups and officials are reacting to China’s submarine-launched missile test, arguing it strengthens calls for Pacific-led security arrangements and opposes the Pacific becoming a proving ground for major powers. Diplomacy in the Region: Solomon Islands will host Papua New Guinea PM James Marape for an official visit tied to the SDA “Solomon Islands for Christ” programme, with guard of honour, church address and bilateral talks planned.

Pacific Security & China Missile Test: China’s submarine-launched ballistic missile test over the South Pacific has triggered fresh calls for a Pacific-led security agreement, with Pacific peace groups warning the “Blue Pacific” must not become a proving ground for great powers. Judicial Autonomy Reform: The Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet met Justice and Legal Affairs, the judiciary and Finance to align policy, legal and funding steps for an independent judiciary under the GREAT Coalition’s reforms. Regional Diplomacy: PM Matthew Wale is set to welcome PNG PM James Marape to Honiara for official talks, and Solomon Islands and PNG have advanced maritime boundary treaty work through a technical legal meeting. Foreign Policy—China: Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela met China’s Wang Yi, reaffirming the One China position and highlighting cooperation on trade, infrastructure, education and renewable energy. Governance & Oversight: The Attorney-General responded to Opposition claims about the Kalu v Attorney-General/JLSC matter, rejecting unverified political allegations. Health & Infrastructure: Japan/JICA’s upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita was handed over, while Malaita leaders also flagged wider provincial health infrastructure gaps. Community Development: New Zealand delivered 39 water tanks to Tasimboko Ward, and CEMA’s Farmers First initiative is boosting rural cocoa and copra market access. Environment & Food Security: Solomon Islands joined a Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves push, while local fishers in Malaita say fish aggregating devices are helping protect lagoon stocks.

Pacific Security Push: China’s nuclear-capable missile test has reignited calls for a Pacific-led security agreement, with Australia’s Pat Conroy saying Beijing damaged its regional standing and Pacific leaders expected to debate stronger cooperation at the next Pacific Islands Forum. Judicial Autonomy Reform: The Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet convened justice, judiciary and finance officials to align policy, legal and budget steps for an independent judiciary under the GREAT Coalition agenda. PM Wale’s Overseas Diplomacy: Matthew Wale is set to travel to Washington and Tokyo, while Solomon Islands will also host PNG PM James Marape in Honiara for official talks tied to the “Solomon Islands for Christ” programme. China Relations, One-China Reaffirmed: Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela met China’s Wang Yi in Beijing, with both sides stressing deepening cooperation and adherence to the One-China principle. Rennell Bauxite Investigation: The government says investigators are reviewing records from 2017 onward as it widens scrutiny of 33 bauxite shipments exported from West Rennell. Health Infrastructure in Malaita: Japan-funded upgrades to Kilu’ufi Hospital are being handed over, as Malaita leaders warn that most facilities have seen little or no renovation in recent years. Local Development Delivery: East Choiseul completed its 2025 CDP rollout, and CEMA’s Farmers First initiative is boosting rural cocoa and copra sales in Vella Lavella.

China–Solomon Islands Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela met China’s Wang Yi in Beijing, with Beijing stressing its ties bring “no political strings,” no “sphere of influence,” and pledging deeper cooperation in green energy, health, education and climate. Regional Security & Missile Fallout: The meeting comes amid regional anger over China’s submarine-launched nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific, which Solomon Islands leaders and others said “caused tension.” PM Travel & Key Visits: Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set to travel to the U.S. and Japan on an eight-day trip, while he will welcome Papua New Guinea PM James Marape to Honiara for official talks. Maritime Boundaries: Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea concluded a two-day technical meeting in Honiara to progress their maritime boundary treaty work. Governance & Courts: The Attorney-General rejected Opposition claims over the Kalu v Attorney-General/JLSC matter, while the Opposition raised concerns about legal independence. Rennell Bauxite Probe: Government investigators are reviewing records from 2017 onward as the state widens the Rennell bauxite investigation, with former PM Manasseh Sogavare potentially facing questioning. Health in Malaita: Japan officially handed over the upgraded Kilufi Hospital, a major Malaita healthcare boost. Public Service Reform: The Ministry of Public Service is consulting on new Public Service Regulations and Public Service Orders. Law & Order Pressure: Opposition and Independent MPs renewed calls for urgent action against rising crime in Central Guadalcanal. Domestic Transport Disruption: Solomon Airlines domestic services are strained with only one Twin Otter plane available, causing cancellations and delays.

Foreign Policy & Diplomacy: PM Matthew Wale will travel to the United States and Japan on an eight-day visit, his first since taking office, as Solomon Islands pushes a “balanced and independent” foreign policy and regional unity. Regional Security: China’s missile test continues to dominate Pacific politics, with Beijing rejecting claims of a “sphere of influence” and insisting its ties come with “no political strings,” while Solomon Islands and others urge an “Ocean of Peace” approach. China-Solomons Ties: Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela met China’s Wang Yi in Beijing, reaffirming the One-China principle and discussing trade, infrastructure, green energy, education, health and people-to-people links. Maritime Boundaries: Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea concluded technical talks in Honiara on finalising their maritime boundary treaty work, including the southern endpoint in the Coral Sea. Governance & Courts: The Attorney-General responded to Opposition claims over the Kalu v Attorney-General matter involving the JLSC, rejecting allegations of political influence. Anti-Corruption Probe: Government investigators are reviewing records from 2017 onward in the Rennell bauxite investigation, including 33 shipments from West Rennell (2017–2019). Health (Malaita): Japan handed over the upgraded Kilufi Hospital, with new emergency, outpatient, maternity and surgical facilities aimed at reducing referrals and improving care. Law & Order (Central Guadalcanal): Opposition and Independent MP Peter Shanel Agovaka renewed calls for urgent action against escalating criminal activity in Belaha and surrounding areas. Public Service Reform: The Ministry of Public Service is consulting on new subsidiary laws—Public Service Regulations and Public Service Orders—to strengthen governance. Transport: Solomon Airlines domestic services remain disrupted due to a reduced fleet and aircraft maintenance issues.

Pacific Security: China’s nuclear-capable submarine-launched missile test into the South Pacific drew fast condemnation, with Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale saying it was “not something a friend does,” while China’s FM Wang Yi insisted Beijing has “no geopolitical intentions” and no “sphere of influence,” and that cooperation comes with “no political strings attached.” Foreign Affairs: Rick Houenipwela met China’s CIDCA chair in Beijing, with China citing about RMB 1.8b in aid since 2019 and offering deeper cooperation in green energy, healthcare and education. Governance & Courts: Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare raised concerns over Attorney-General advice to settle the Kalu v Attorney-General case involving the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, questioning legal independence. Public Service Reform: The Ministry of Public Service is consulting provinces on new Public Service Regulations and Public Service Orders to implement the Public Service Act 2025. Health: Japan officially handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita (SBD$130m), boosting emergency, surgery, imaging and maternity services. Law & Order: Central Guadalcanal MPs and leaders renewed calls for urgent action against escalating criminal activity in Belaha and surrounding areas. Domestic Transport: Solomon Airlines’ domestic service disruptions continue as it operates with only one Twin Otter plane. Local Development: Fencing has begun for the Mile 6 Cattle Project in Western Province, starting with 32 hectares funded via the PCDF.

Pacific Security & Diplomacy: China insists its Pacific ties are not a “sphere of influence” and come with “no political strings,” after Solomon Islands FM Rick Houenipwela met Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, amid fresh regional anger over China’s submarine-launched ballistic missile test. Legal & Governance: Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare raises serious concerns over Attorney-General independence in the JLSC court matter, alleging advice to settle was linked to government directions. Public Service Reform: The Ministry of Public Service is socialising the Public Service Act 2025 and drafting new Public Service Regulations and Orders, with consultations underway in provinces. Crime & Policing (Central Guadalcanal): Independent MP Peter Shanel Agovaka and Opposition Leader Sogavare back urgent action against escalating criminal thuggery, including alleged arson and violence, calling for arrests and prosecutions. Healthcare (Malaita): Japan officially hands over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital (SBD$130m) to strengthen Malaita’s emergency, surgical and maternity services. Transport & Services: Solomon Airlines faces growing domestic disruption as it operates with only one Twin Otter plane, leaving passengers stranded or missing flights. Local Development: Fencing has begun at the Mile 6 cattle farm in Western Province, with the first 32 hectares contracted under the PCDF. National Conversation: SINU VC Dr Transform Aqorau urges a national debate ahead of the 50th Independence anniversary, focusing on public finance reform, a sovereign wealth fund, education change and decentralisation.