Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have taken a major step toward strengthening their bilateral relationship by signing a new Framework Agreement on Development and Economic Cooperation. The accord will guide collaboration between the two nations from 2026 to 2030.
The agreement was finalized following high-level bilateral talks in Port Moresby between Prime Minister James Marape and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, who is making his first official visit to Papua New Guinea since taking office.
Prime Minister Marape described the meeting as an important milestone for the two Melanesian nations, noting that the agreement provides a clear roadmap for closer cooperation in trade, investment, security, infrastructure, economic development, and regional affairs.
He emphasized that Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have enjoyed decades of friendship extending well beyond their years as independent nations, rooted in a shared Melanesian ancestry, cultural traditions, and Christian values.
As both countries move into the next chapter of their nationhood—with Papua New Guinea celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and the Solomon Islands approaching the same milestone in 2028—Marape stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships that will benefit future generations.
The high-level discussions focused on mutual challenges, including border security, economic diversification, climate change, regional stability, and the shifting geopolitical landscape in the Pacific.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's full support for the Solomon Islands' leadership within the Pacific Islands Forum, stating that the two countries will continue working together to ensure Pacific voices are amplified on critical issues like trade, climate action, and regional security.
Marape also highlighted the robust economic links between the neighbors, noting that the Solomon Islands remains the largest destination for Papua New Guinean investment in the Pacific.
Papua New Guinea has invested more than K1 billion in the Solomon Islands through companies operating in agriculture, telecommunications, and various other industries. Marape encouraged businesses from both nations to continue exploring cross-border investment opportunities.
Additionally, the two leaders discussed establishing closer trade arrangements among Melanesian countries—including Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Fiji, and Vanuatu—to drive economic integration and encourage a greater flow of goods and investment within the region.
Marape confirmed that his government will now develop a detailed implementation plan to execute the commitments outlined in the new cooperation framework. He also announced plans to visit the Solomon Islands in the near future to hold further discussions on expanding bilateral cooperation and identifying practical, mutually beneficial projects.
The Prime Minister concluded that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring Melanesian countries work hand-in-hand to promote peace, prosperity, and sustainable development across the region.
