AGP Executive Report

OFC U-16 Women’s Football: Fiji’s Mini Kulas booked the semi-finals after edging Solomon Islands 4-3 in a thriller in Honiara, with Varanisese Naiqarau scoring twice and an own goal helping Fiji lead 3-1 at half-time; Solomon Islands fought back but Fiji added late goals, keeping their dream of reaching the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup alive. OFC U-19 Men’s Football: Solomon Islands’ bid for the FIFA U-20 World Cup ended as Tahiti stunned the previously unbeaten side 2-1 in the semi-final in Apia, Samoa, with second-half goals sealing Tahiti’s place in the final. Infrastructure & Safety: The Ministry of Infrastructure Development says road signs and public assets on the Henderson–Alligator corridor are being damaged, urging communities to protect the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project upgrades. Mining Law Debate: The Bills and Legislation Committee rejects claims that more consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 would cost $1b, warning rushed changes could fracture trust and destabilise communities. Diplomacy & Aid: US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau visited Honiara, backing cultural preservation for Bloody Ridge and outlining broader Pacific security and economic priorities. Health Relief: Three Solomon Islands children, including 3-month-old Marina, were discharged from Fiji after free heart treatment, with families thanking the governments and medical teams involved. Sports Officiating: International rugby sevens referees arrived in Honiara ahead of the Solomon Ports National 7s (Sept 16–18).

US-Pacific Engagement: Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau visited the Federated States of Micronesia, Solomon Islands and Kiribati, pledging over US$100m for disaster relief and reconstruction in FSM and signing an agreement for Peace Corps to return to Solomon Islands after 26 years. Road Safety & Vandalism: Solomon Islands’ MID says road signs and public infrastructure along the Henderson–Alligator corridor are being damaged, urging communities to protect the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project assets. Mining Bill Consultation: The Bills and Legislation Committee rejects claims that more consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 would cost $1b, warning rushed changes could trigger fractured trust and instability, and recommending the bill be withdrawn for wider consultation. Health in the Region: Three-month-old Marina and other children received heart treatment in Fiji, with families thanking Solomon Islands for support and donors/medical teams. Diplomacy & Jerusalem Embassies: Pacific nations continue opening embassies in Jerusalem, with experts linking the push to Christian belief and biblical prophecy. Sports (OFC U-19): Tahiti stunned unbeaten Solomon Islands 2-1 to reach the FIFA U-20 World Cup final, ending Solomon Islands’ qualification hopes. Local Development: China-funded support delivered 17 boats and 18 outboard engines to West Makira to improve transport for health, education, fisheries and agriculture.

Health in the Pacific: Three-month-old Marina and two other children were discharged from Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital in Fiji after heart treatment, following journeys from the Solomon Islands for surgery and follow-up care. Road Safety: The Ministry of Infrastructure Development says road signs and public infrastructure on the Henderson–Alligator corridor are being damaged, including signs appearing struck or bent, and is urging communities to protect the assets. Mining Law Debate: Solomon Islands’ Bills and Legislation Committee rejects claims that more consultation on the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 would cost $1b, warning rushed changes could fracture trust and destabilise communities, and recommends withdrawal for wider consultation. Regional Diplomacy: Solomon Islands’ High Commission in New Delhi joined an investment forum by the Indian Oceania Business Association, highlighting priority sectors for trade and investment links. Sports: Tahiti upset unbeaten Solomon Islands 2-1 in the OFC U-19 semi-final, ending SI’s FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification hopes. Elections Integrity: UNDP says it is exploring technology to reduce electoral malpractice and strengthen public confidence ahead of Solomon Islands’ 2028 elections. Education & Skills: The first five students under the “1,000 students per year to China” initiative have departed for vocational studies, aimed at building a skilled workforce.

Health Diplomacy: Solomon Islands’ MHMS delegation met India officials in New Delhi to advance health cooperation and recognition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia, building on two MOUs. Infrastructure Safety: MID says road signs on the Henderson–Alligator corridor are being damaged, urging communities to protect public assets after incidents near Henderson Airport and the Bomb Disposal junction. Weather & Climate Services: Solomon Islands used PMC-8 in Nuku’alofa to push for stronger meteorological equipment, financing, technology and regional partnerships. Economy Watch: The IMF warns weak public financial management is holding back growth, projecting slower growth and higher inflation unless reforms, fiscal discipline and VAT timing improve. Local Transport Boost: West Makira received a China-funded $1.5m maritime project with 17 boats and 18 outboard engines to support remote communities’ health, education, fisheries and agriculture. Elections Integrity: UNDP says it will use technology to reduce electoral malpractice and strengthen trust ahead of the 2028 joint elections, supported by Japan. Education & Skills: The first five students left for China under the GREAT-backed “1,000 students per year” initiative for vocational training. Sports: International referees arrived in Honiara for next week’s Solomon Ports National 7s, bringing elite sevens experience to local officials. Governance Voice: Transparency Solomon Islands marks International Democracy Day by urging Solomon Islanders to look beyond voting and demand accountability.

Australian Volunteers Program: Australia marked decades of volunteering in Solomon Islands, saying more than 700 volunteers have worked with 136 local organisations since 1965, with 191 volunteers completing 240 assignments since 2018. Democracy and accountability: Transparency Solomon Islands urged people to look beyond elections, stressing “democracy does not begin and end at the ballot box” and calling for better access to information and scrutiny of public power. Education and skills: MEHRD launched a three-day induction for professional development facilitators to better support teachers in rural and remote areas. Youth study abroad: The first five students left for China under the “1,000 Students Per Year” vocational initiative. Climate warning: Solomon Islands Meteorological Service says El Niño is strengthening and may bring hotter, drier conditions, with risks to water, gardens and fishing. Sports: Solomon Islands’ U-16 women held Cook Islands to a 0-0 draw, keeping semi-final hopes alive. Travel and passports: A new report ranks the Solomon Islands passport 59th globally for 2026 access. UK travel rules: The UK published what citizens of 82 ETA-eligible countries can and can’t do in Britain, including limits on work and staying beyond six months.

Education & Skills: Five Solomon Islanders have departed for China as the first cohort under the Government’s 1,000 Students Per Year to China initiative, aimed at building technical and vocational capacity for schools and TVET. Justice & Security: Two men accused of setting fire to Solomon Islands PM Manasseh Sogavare’s residence during the November riots pleaded not guilty; the case is adjourned for a pre-trial conference. Business & Jobs: SICCI is urging provincial SMEs to enter the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, expanding categories and adding a dedicated SME track. Elections & Governance: UNDP says legal work is underway for overseas voting in Solomon Islands’ 2028 elections, with draft amendments being developed. Health & Learning: MEHRD launched a three-day induction for professional development facilitators to better support teachers in rural and remote areas. Community Development: West Makira received $1.5m for maritime transport—17 boats and 18 engines—to improve access for health, schools, fisheries and agriculture. Sports: Solomon Islands’ U-16 women were held 0-0 by Cook Islands, leaving semi-final hopes hanging; meanwhile, the OFC U-19 men’s semi-final sees Solomon Islands set to face Tahiti with a FIFA U-20 World Cup berth on the line.

OFC U-19 Men’s Championship: Solomon Islands set for a semi-final showdown with Tahiti in Apia, with the winners securing two OFC slots for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027. OFC U-16 Women’s Championship: Mini Kulas’ campaign continues after a late 1-0 loss to New Zealand, while Fiji’s Adi Reva starred in a dominant 11-0 win over the Cook Islands—setting up a big test for Solomon Islands. Infrastructure & jobs: Malaita road upgrades move closer to construction after community consultations, with contractors finalising environmental and social plans before mobilisation. Trade & economy: Minister Harry Kuma says Solomon Islands must accelerate innovation and local value-adding ahead of LDC graduation in 2027. Biosecurity: Government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture, food security and trade. Security: RSIPF says 467 WWII UXOs were safely removed and destroyed in Western and Choiseul after Cyclone Maila exposed ordnance. Diplomacy & politics: Opposition alleges possible Australian political interference tied to leaked treaty talks as no-confidence drama fades. Health education: Solomon Islands and the Philippines explore a nursing education partnership to strengthen the health workforce.

Road Works in Malaita: MID and SIRAP2 have wrapped community consultations for major North Road upgrades in Malaita, with contractors CCECC and TTCL finalising environmental and social plans before mobilisation. LDC Graduation Push: Commerce Minister Harry Kuma says Solomon Islands must speed up innovation and local value-adding ahead of 2027 LDC graduation, warning the country will lose “special treatment.” Health Workforce Link-Up: Solomon Islands and the Philippines are exploring a twinning partnership to strengthen nursing education under the PhilPac initiative, with SINU leading talks. Marine Disaster Cooperation: SINU is engaging a Chinese research delegation on marine disaster preparedness, climate resilience and data-sharing initiatives. Parliament for Students: Grade 5 students from St Nicholas School visited Parliament, meeting officials including Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare. UXO Clearance After Cyclone Maila: RSIPF EODD destroyed 467 WWII UXOs across Western and Choiseul after Tropical Cyclone Maila exposed hazards. Biosecurity Strategy Launched: Government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036 to protect agriculture, food security and trade from pests and diseases. Australia Treaty Row: Solomon Islands Opposition alleges leaked texts show Australian funding and treaty talks could influence a no-confidence motion; Australia and officials deny foreign interference. Regional Security Agenda: Pacific leaders endorsed a five-year security roadmap at PIF in Palau, raising alarm over unannounced ICBM tests. Electoral Support from Japan: Japan provided US$3m to UNDP for democratic governance and electoral assistance in Solomon Islands. Sports Spotlight: OFC U-19 semis in Apia set Solomon Islands vs Tahiti and New Zealand vs New Caledonia, with World Cup qualification on the line.

Australia–Solomon Treaty Push: Leaked messages and ABC reporting say Canberra is finalising a comprehensive security treaty with Honiara, with promises of nearly A$980m (about US$705m) including free education support, visa improvements and electorate-linked grants—while Solomon Opposition leaders demand answers over alleged foreign political interference. Domestic Politics: A no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale was filed then withdrawn, easing immediate pressure after cabinet turmoil. Biosecurity: Solomon Islands launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture, food security and trade. Infrastructure for Communities: China delivered 22 water tanks to West Makira schools and communities; Malu’u Market’s 120-m seawall is complete and construction moves to the next phase. US Returns Peace Corps: Honiara and Washington signed an agreement to restart the Peace Corps after more than two decades. Sports & Youth: OFC U-16 Women’s action in Honiara saw Fiji crush Cook Islands 11–0; Makira-Ulawa trained 60 school and sports reps in OSEP/PE. Elections Support: Japan provided JPY430m via UNDP to strengthen Solomon Islands electoral institutions.

Australia–Solomons Treaty: Australia and Solomon Islands have reached an in-principle agreement on a comprehensive new treaty, with leaked messages saying Canberra could add nearly A$980m (about US$705m) over coming years for free education, visa and security improvements, and electorate-linked community grants—a move critics say risks mixing foreign aid with domestic politics. Domestic Politics: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale survived a no-confidence attempt after the motion was withdrawn, with parliament adjourned indefinitely while the government pushes ahead with reforms including mining changes and the free education rollout. Opposition Pushback: The Opposition is demanding answers over alleged communications linking the treaty package to political influence, while DPM Francis Sade says the messages were routine updates. US–Solomons Cooperation: The US and Solomon Islands signed to renew the Peace Corps programme, and the US also announced four airport rescue and firefighting vehicles plus a parliament building cost assessment. Japan Support: Japan provided JPY430m (about US$3m) via UNDP to strengthen Solomon Islands electoral institutions and preparations for future elections. Local Development: A 120-metre Malu’u seawall is completed in North Malaita as the Malu’u Market project moves to the next phase. Education & Health: A new WASH facility has been handed over for Gifu Primary School in Guadalcanal, improving water storage and sanitation for students. Sports & Inclusion: Makira-Ulawa trained 60 school and sports representatives in OSEP/PE, and SINIS hosted an inclusive “Play for Equity” day for people with disabilities.

Political Stability in Focus: Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale survived a no-confidence attempt, with parliament adjourned indefinitely after the motion was withdrawn following lawmakers switching sides; Wale says the break will let his government push mining reforms and free education, as US Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau arrived to pledge the return of the Peace Corps. Australia–Solomons Deal: Leaked messages say Australia is moving to fast-track a sweeping new $1 billion treaty, including major extra funding for community priorities, free school education support, visa improvements and security needs. Border & Visa Reform: The government launched an electronic visa system under a new Border Management System, aiming to speed up online applications while strengthening immigration security. Public Safety: Police confirmed a real pistol was used in a Honiara shop threat involving an Australian national, after officers recovered the firearm during a search. Trade & Local Business: Honiara will host the 2026 National Trade Fair (Sept 9–16) at SINU’s FOPA Village, featuring local products, innovation and culture. Education Push: Wale reiterated free education will roll out from ECE through SINU and TVET, with officials estimating an extra $1.1b needed. Sports (Youth Football): New Zealand began the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship with a 5-0 win over hosts Solomon Islands, while Solomon Islands’ U-19 men reached semi-finals after beating Samoa 2-0.

Pacific Climate Push: Pacific Islands Forum leaders in Palau urged COP31 to deliver real climate finance and support for clean energy and ocean action as fossil-fuel costs bite harder. Politics in Honiara: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale survived a no-confidence bid; parliament was adjourned indefinitely and Wale says the break will let his government push mining reforms and free education. US Peace Corps Returns: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau visited Honiara as Solomon Islands and the US signed to renew the Peace Corps programme, with talks also covering broader cooperation. Australia-Solomons Treaty Leak: A leaked message says Australia is preparing a major in-principle funding commitment tied to a new treaty with Solomon Islands, amid Wale’s political fight. Mining Bill Delay: Government says delaying mineral resources amendments could cost about $1 billion in revenue this year while consultations continue. Health Cooperation: A Solomon Islands delegation explored healthcare links with Yashoda Medicity, while Fiji’s heart hospital expands cardiac services across the Pacific. Maritime Safety: Government ordered immediate closure of non-ISPS-compliant sufferance wharves nationwide. Weather Warning: Strong wind warnings issued for Temotu, Makira and Rennell/Bellona waters. Football: New Zealand opened the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship with a 5-0 win over hosts Solomon Islands; Fiji also thrashed the Cook Islands 11-0.

OFC U-16 Women’s Football: Fiji’s Junior Kulas opened the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship in Honiara with a crushing 11-0 win over the Cook Islands, led by Adi Reva’s five goals as the team set up a big clash with New Zealand next. OFC U-16 Women’s Football (Solomon Islands): New Zealand also started strongly in the tournament, beating hosts Solomon Islands 5-0, with Jess Saunders scoring a hat-trick. Politics—No-Confidence Motion: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale has been spared a no-confidence vote after East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga withdrew his motion ahead of Monday’s parliamentary sitting. Diplomacy—US Engagement: Wale held bilateral talks with visiting US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, including plans to bring back the Peace Corps to Solomon Islands. Maritime Security & Trade: Government ordered the immediate closure of sufferance wharves nationwide that fail to meet ISPS requirements, aiming to plug security gaps and protect revenue. Public Safety: RSIPF detained an Australian man after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a shop in east Honiara. Regional Sports: In Fiji’s Battle of the Giants, Solomon Islands-born Billy Afi scored for Nasinu in a 2-1 win over Navua, keeping the competition tight.

No-Confidence Crisis Eases: East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga has withdrawn the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale, ending days of political uncertainty ahead of Parliament’s Monday sitting. Wale welcomed the move, saying he was concerned about rising public anger and the need for better consultation. US-Solomons Talks: PM Wale met visiting US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Honiara, with discussions including the planned return of the US Peace Corps and broader economic and security cooperation. Port Security Crackdown: The government ordered the immediate closure of sufferance wharves nationwide that are not ISPS-compliant, aiming to plug security gaps and protect customs revenue; approved wharves must ensure duties and taxes are paid before cargo release. Parliament Numbers Shift: The GREAT Coalition’s tally rose to 31 MPs after two more members crossed the floor, ahead of the earlier planned no-confidence debate. Sports & Community: Solomon Islands beach soccer coach James Naka is finalising the 12-man squad for Tahiti’s OFC Beach Soccer Nations Cup, while RSIPF detained an Australian man after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm in east Honiara.

No-Confidence Monday: Solomon Islands Parliament will sit Monday, Sept 7, with a no-confidence motion against PM Matthew Wale set to be moved by East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga, alongside a finance-related resolution to keep public services funded at last year’s level. Security Prep: RSIPF has sworn in more than 35 Correctional Services officers to support the planned operation, while SICCI has met police to keep businesses and the public informed and to prioritise protection of critical infrastructure. Honiara Incident: RSIPF detained an Australian national after a threatening weapon incident near the SDA-Vura main road in east Honiara; police say the suspect refused orders and was controlled with less-lethal force, with no firearm found in a vehicle search. Agriculture Training: SIART continued capacity building in Malaita, training young agriculture extension officers and provincial teams on financial literacy and feed formulation to help agribusiness producer organisations run profitable operations. Fisheries Inclusion: MFMR launched its Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) strategy 2026–2030 to broaden participation across the fisheries sector. Sports (Local Focus): Solomon Islands U-19 captain Jayroll Patty scored a hat-trick to send the team into the OFC U-19 semi-finals, while Solomon Islands hosts the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship this week. Regional Climate Voice: Solomon Islands children presented climate solutions to national leaders and partners at Klaemet Tok Stori from Pikinini, urging action on rising seas, food and water insecurity, and cultural loss. Earthquake: A 5.9-magnitude quake struck the Solomon Islands, according to GFZ.

No-Confidence Monday: A motion of no confidence in Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set to be moved when Parliament resumes Monday, Sept 7, with East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga tabling the bid. Security Prep: Ahead of the vote, SICCI has engaged RSIPF and urged calm, while CSSI Emergency Response Group officers have been sworn in to support police during the operation. Honiara Incident: RSIPF arrested an Australian national after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a shop near the SDA-Vura main road; police used less-lethal force after the suspect refused orders. Fisheries Inclusion: MFMR launched its Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Strategy 2026–2030 to broaden participation across the fisheries sector. Agriculture Skills: SIART trained Malaita Young Professionals and provincial teams in financial literacy and feed formulation to help Agribusiness Producer Organizations run profitable agribusinesses. Sports (Youth Football): Solomon Islands U-19 captain Jayroll Patty scored a hat-trick as the team beat New Caledonia 3-1 to reach the semi-finals. Regional Spotlight: Pacific leaders at the PIF in Palau registered concern over China’s missile test and China pushed back over Taiwan-related tensions.