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All Updates · Politics & Government

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

Government portal says CPI rose 1.3 percent in August

The National Consumer Price Index stood at 136.6 in August 2026 after a 1.3 percent increase, according to a statement published on the Solomon Islands Government portal.

Solomon Times Politics & Government · 2026-10-01 Original ↗

Your Voice Matters’: Speaker Oti Welcomes Young Leaders as National Youth Parliament Convenes

Welcoming 50 young delegates from across the nation to the parliamentary chamber yesterday, Speaker of the National Parliament Patterson Oti handed over the floor to a generation ready to claim its seat at the decision-making table. “Your presence here today demonstrates your commitment to leadership, civic responsibility, and the future... The post Your Voice Matters’: Speaker Oti Welcomes Young Leaders as National Youth Parliament Convenes appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-09-29 Original ↗

Acting PM congratulates China on 77th anniversary

BY NED GAGAHE ACTING Prime Minister Francis Sade has congratulated the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China on its 77th anniversary, praising the country’s transformation, development and growing global role. Mr Sade conveyed the congratulations on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and people during a reception at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara yesterday to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. He also acknowledged the 7th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Solomon Islands and China, describing the relationship as a progressive partnership built on mutual respect, sovereignty and shared development aspirations. “On behalf of the government and people of the Solomon Islands, I wish to extend our warmest and heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency President Xi Jinping for his leadership and the government and people of the People’s Republic of China as the nation celebrates its 77th year of remarkable progress and prosperity,” Mr Sade said. He said China had undergone remarkable transformation, resilience and progress over the past 77 years, becoming one of the world’s leading economies and an important player in global affairs. Mr Sade said Solomon Islands valued constructive partnerships that supported its national development priorities and contributed to regional and global prosperity. He reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ continued commitment to the One China Principle, describing it as a foundation of the bilateral relationship. The Acting Prime Minister said cooperation between the two countries had expanded across governance, trade and economic development, infrastructure, agriculture, climate action, disaster response, health, sports, education, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges. He highlighted Chinese-supported infrastructure projects, including the National Stadium, infrastructure support to Solomon Islands National University, the National Referral Hospital Comprehensive Medical Centre and the National Broadband Network Project. Mr Sade also pointed to the Auki Road project in Malaita Province as another example of the cooperation between the two countries. “These are all testament to the friendship and cooperation that we have progressed in the past seven years,” he said. He said the Solomon Islands Government recognise the tangible benefits the projects had delivered through sports, education, health, digital connectivity and improved access to development. Mr Sade also highlighted the signing of the Framework Agreement on Enhanced Economic Partnership between Solomon Islands and China earlier this year, saying it reflected a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing the comprehensive strategic partnership. He said the Government would continue engaging with China to ensure tangible and mutually beneficial outcomes for Solomon Islands and its people. Looking ahead, Mr Sade said he was confident the partnership would continue to grow through mutual respect, shared interests and a common commitment to sustainable development. He also acknowledged the contribution of the Chinese community to the social and economic development of Solomon Islands. The Acting Prime Minister concluded by proposing a toast to continued progress, prosperity, friendship and cooperation between the two countries. “May God bless the people of the Republic of China and may God bless Solomon Islands from shore to shore,” he said. Photo credit: Ned Gagahe For feedback, contact: gagahened@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-29 Original ↗

National Youth and Children’s Parliament 2026 Opens in Honiara

Honiara, Solomon Islands – 28 September 2026: The National Youth and Children’s Parliament 2026 begins today at the Paul Tovua Complex at the National Parliament Office in Honiara, bringing together approximately 50 children and young people from across Solomon Islands to learn about parliamentary processes, discuss issues affecting their communities, and present their views and recommendations. Held from 28 September to 1 October, the programme is organised by the National Parliament of Solomon Islands, with support from UNICEF and funding from the European Union (EU), in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs and the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening. This year’s Parliament is held under the theme, “Our Voices, Our Future: Decentralization of Inclusive and Accessible Social Services for All.” “Your presence here today demonstrates your commitment to leadership, civic responsibility, and the future development of our nation,” Speaker of the National Parliament, Honourable Patterson Oti, told participants when he officially opened the event today. “This year’s theme recognizes that the voice of children and young people matters. You will learn about the foundation of our democratic system and the important role played by Parliament, as well as the distinct roles of the Executive and the Judiciary. You will gain a deep appreciation of parliamentary democracy, public policy development, electoral processes, national development priorities, and the delivery of essential services to our people,” the Hon. Speaker said. The National Youth and Children’s Parliament 2026 kicks off today at the Paul Tovua Complex in Honiara, uniting around 50 children and young people from the Solomon Islands to explore parliamentary processes, address community issues, and share their perspectives and recommendations. The theme provides an opportunity for children and young people to explore how decision-making and social service delivery can better respond to community needs, including through stronger provincial and local governance. Discussions will focus on issues affecting children, young people, and their communities, including education, health, water, sanitation and hygiene, the environment, child protection, and social protection. The programme builds on the National Youth Parliament, first organised in 2009. Similar programmes were also held in 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2017. For 2026, the programme is particularly significant as it has expanded to include both children and youth, with participants from Honiara and the provinces. It aims to provide a more inclusive and representative platform for young people from diverse backgrounds. Over four days, participants will learn about children’s rights, the Sustainable Development Goals, governance systems, parliamentary procedures, and the roles and responsibilities of Parliament. They will also take part in committee discussions, prepare speeches, and participate in a parliamentary simulation. The programme will conclude with a mock parliamentary sitting on Thursday, 1 October, where participants will debate motions and present resolutions following parliamentary procedures. Their recommendations will then be presented to the Speaker of the National Parliament. The programme also recognises children’s right to express their views on matters affecting them, consistent with Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Participants, aged 10 to 35, are drawn from schools, youth networks, and provincial communities, with efforts made to promote gender balance, provincial diversity, and the representation of persons with disabilities. The National Parliament acknowledges the support of UNICEF and the EU in making the initiative possible. The Parliament sees the Children and Youth Parliament as an important platform for participation and learning, giving young people an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen their public speaking and leadership skills, and contribute their views on issues that are important to their communities and the nation.

Sunday Isles Politics & Government · 2026-09-29 Original ↗

Government portal says Kunkwaikwai land recording reaches three-month notice stage

A statement on the Solomon Islands Government portal says the Kunkwaikwai customary landholding group of Ward 30, Central Kwara'ae, has moved to the public notice stage of customary land recording.

Solomon Times Politics & Government · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

West Papua group thanks Wale over UN stand

BY JOSES SAREN​ A Washington-based West Papua human rights group has thanked Prime Minister Matthew Wale for raising the human rights situation in West Papua at the United Nations.​ The West Papua Human Rights Center (WPHRC) said Wale’s remarks had drawn international attention to the issue and highlighted the importance of Pacific voices in discussions on West Papua and the wider Melanesian region.​ The group made the comments in a statement following a meeting between WPHRC co-founder Sister Charity Titiulu and representatives of the Solomon Islands Government on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.​ WPHRC said it conveyed its appreciation for the Solomon Islands’ continued solidarity with West Papua in regional and international forums.​ It also welcomed further regional engagement towards a peaceful resolution of the West Papua situation.​ The group called for continued international engagement, including unhindered access to West Papua for international human rights representatives and a visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.​ WPHRC said such engagement could help improve transparency and build confidence in addressing human rights concerns.​ It thanked Wale, the Solomon Islands Government and the people of Solomon Islands for their friendship and continued engagement with the people of West Melanesia.​ WPHRC is led by Herman Wainggai, a West Papuan activist living in exile in the United States. The organisation identifies Wainggai as its founder and executive director. He is also associated with the West Papua National Authority (WPNA), a West Papuan political advocacy organisation.​ WPHRC and WPNA have publicly worked together on international advocacy relating to human rights and self-determination in West Papua.​ Wale raised West Papua’s human rights situation while delivering Solomon Islands’ national statement under the decolonization agenda at the 81st United Nations General Assembly on September 25.​ He said reports of human rights violations in West Papua had persisted for too long and called for the situation to be independently verified.​ Wale also renewed a Pacific Islands Forum call for Indonesia to facilitate a visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to West Papua.​ For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

Premier Atu thanks Australia, urges unity for more projects

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU Guadalcanal Premier Willie Atu thanked the Australian Government for funding the newly handed‐over community hall at Ruavatu Parish in East Central Guadalcanal, describing it as a milestone for rural development. Speaking during the handover ceremony on Thursday last week, Premier Atu said the project reflects Australia’s commitment to support communities in Guadalcanal. “We thank the Australian Government for making such a wonderful community initiative come into reality for the people of Ruavatu,” he said. He said the Ruavatu hall is one of nearly 60 projects funded by Australia across Guadalcanal Province. “Other initiatives include the installation of solar lights in villages, aimed at improving safety and access after dark,” Atu said. Premier Atu also used the occasion to urge his people to work together and take advantage of the program by applying for more projects. He said unity and cooperation among communities will ensure Guadalcanal continues to benefit from Australia’s support. He noted that the broader program demonstrates Australia’s partnership to promote sustainable development and improve living standards in rural areas. He welcomed the projects as a sign of progress, highlighting that improved facilities and services will help foster resilience and opportunity across the province. Photo credit: John Houanihau For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

PM calls for peace, urges dialogue, diplomacy and stronger UN in address to world leaders

BY NED GAGAHE PRIME Minister Matthew Wale has called for greater international cooperation, dialogue and diplomacy, saying there is no substitute for peaceful negotiations in resolving armed conflicts. Mr Wale made the call while addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he spoke on international peace and security and the challenges facing the global community. He said the past year had been marked by extended armed conflicts, an energy crisis and disruptions to global trade. These challenges, he said, had been compounded by destabilisation driven by those pursuing their own interests. Mr Wale said the impact of these global challenges was particularly significant for small island economies such as Solomon Islands. “For small island economies, these are not distant events,” he said. He said increases in fuel prices were felt through higher costs of shipping, electricity, food and essential services. This, he said, placed a heavy burden on communities that had little buffer against external shocks. Mr Wale said the situation reinforced an understanding long held by Solomon Islands that peace and security could not be separated from development. “These tensions confirm what Solomon Islands has long understood: peace and security are inseparable from development. Neither can be secured without the other,” he said. On armed conflicts, the Prime Minister stressed the human cost of war and the long-term consequences for affected communities. “There are no winners in war, only graves, orphans and the long labour of rebuilding what conflict has torn down,” he said. Mr Wale called on parties involved in armed conflicts to protect civilians, return to negotiations and respect international law. “There is no substitute for dialogue, diplomacy and peaceful negotiation,” he said. “Solomon Islands calls on all parties to armed conflicts to protect civilians, return to the negotiating table and act in full respect of international law.” He also called for a stronger and more agile United Nations capable of responding to contemporary global challenges. “And it is why the world needs a stronger, more agile United Nations, one equipped to respond to the realities of today,” Mr Wale said. Photo credit: OPMC For feedback, contact: gagahened@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

WEST PAPUA HEARD

PM renews call for human rights team to visit West Papua, backs Pacific decolonisation BY CHARLES STENNETT Prime Minister Matthew Wale has taken the issue of West Papua and Pacific decolonisation to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), calling for greater international attention to human rights concerns and the right to self-determination. Addressing the UNGA in New York, Prime Minister Wale said Solomon Islands respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Indonesia but maintain that reports of human rights violations in West Papua had persisted for too long and should be independently verified. He renewed the Pacific Islands Forum leaders’ call for the Indonesian Government to facilitate a long-awaited visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to West Papua. “Such a visit is an act of confidence between friends and an affirmation that there is nothing to hide and therefore no fear from the light,” Prime Minister Wale said. The Prime Minister also used his address to highlight the Pacific’s continuing decolonisation agenda, calling for the decolonisation of New Caledonia and French Polynesia, both of which remain on the UN list of Non-Self-Governing Territories. “Solomon Islands reaffirms its longstanding support for the right to self-determination of the Kanak people of New Caledonia and the Maul Nui people of French Polynesia,” he said. Prime Minister Wale said the UN decolonisation process must go beyond declarations and provide practical pathways for people in Non-Self-Governing Territories to determine their own political future and development aspirations. The remarks place West Papua, self-determination and decolonisation firmly among the Pacific issues Solomon Islands is bringing before the international community. Photo credit: OPMC For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

“A Relic of 1945”: Solomon Islands PM Slams UN Veto, Demands Action on West Papua

by Charley Piringi Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has demanded a sweeping overhaul of the UN Security Council, calling its veto power a dangerous “relic of 1945” at the United Nations General Assembly last week. Speaking at the UN, Wale pointed to the “double standards” fueling global wars and... The post “A Relic of 1945”: Solomon Islands PM Slams UN Veto, Demands Action on West Papua appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-09-28 Original ↗

Prime Minister Wale raised West Papua and decolonization issues at UNGA

BY CHARLES STENNETT The issue of the Melanesian population in West Papua and the decolonization of territories in the Pacific has once again brought to the attention of the international community when Prime Minister Matthew Wale presented his speech at the United Nation General Assembly (UNGA), in New York last week. In his speech Prime Minister Wale said that while Solomon Islands respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Indonesia, there have been reports of human rights violations in West Papua have persisted for far too long and they must be independently verified. He therefore reiterated the call by Forum Island leaders for a UN High Commission Human Rights team to be allowed into Indonesia to investigate the alleged human rights violations. “We therefore renew the call of Pacific Islands Forum leaders for the Government of Indonesia to facilitate, without further delay, the long awaited visit of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to West Papua. Such a visit is an act of confidence between friends and an affirmation that there is nothing to hide and there is nothing to fear from the light” Prime Minister Wale said. On decolonization, Prime Minister Wale calls for the decolonization of territories of New Caledonia and French Polynesia, both colonies of France. “Solomon Islands reaffirms its long standing support for the right to self-determination of the Kanak people of New Caledonia and the Maui Nui people of French Polynesia. The UN decolonization process must offer more than hope. It must provide practical pathways to the full emancipation of peoples in non-self-governing territories, and to their freedom to determine their own political future and development aspirations.”. Prime Minister Wale said. [Photo: Prime Minister Matthew Wale presented his speech at UNGA, New York last week. Photo supplied]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-27 Original ↗

Children to join National Youth Parliament for first time

BY JOSES SAREN​ Children will take part in the National Youth and Children’s Parliament for the first time when the National Parliament of Solomon Islands (NPSI) hosts the four-day programme from September 28 to October 1.​ The programme will bring together 23 children and 27 youths representing all 50 constituencies.​ Parliaments’s Chief Civic Officer of Civic Education Young Virivolomo said the inclusion of children makes this year’s programme different from previous national youth parliaments.​ The initiative was first held in 2009 and was followed by programmes in 2012, 2014 and 2018 before an eight-year break.​ Virivolomo said the children, aged 12 to 15 and generally from Forms 1 to 3, will participate alongside youths aged 18 to 35.​ He said the programme will give children and young people an opportunity to learn about democracy and parliamentary processes while contributing to discussions on issues affecting their communities.​ This year’s programme carries the theme, “Our Voice, Our Future: Decentralization of Inclusive, Accessible Social Service for All.”​ Virivolomo said the theme will allow participants to explore how social services can better respond to community needs at the local and provincial levels.​ Discussions will focus on education, medical services, water, sanitation and hygiene.​ The programme is supported by the Solomon Islands Government, NPSI, UNICEF and the European Union.​ Expected outcomes include increasing children’s and youths’ understanding of issues affecting the country, improving their knowledge of parliamentary processes, and generating resolutions that could inform provincial planning and budgeting.​ The programme also aims to strengthen child and youth participation in local governance and collaboration between young people, provincial authorities and the national government.​ All 23 child participants are from Honiara, while the 27 youths were selected from youth councils and communities across the provinces, including rural areas.​ Virivolomo said children from the provinces were not included this year. He said NPSI could consider bringing children from the provinces if the programme is held again next year.​ The programme will also include a participant living with a disability as part of efforts to promote inclusion.​ The four-day programme will end on October 1 with a live debate involving the young participants.​ The debate will be streamed on the National Parliament’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.​ [Photo: Chief Officer of Civic Education Young Virivolomo (left) speaks with Acting Manager of the Communications and Media unit at the NPSI, Duane Baiabe (right). Photo NPSI .]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-27 Original ↗

Foreign Minister Calls for Stronger g7+ Cooperation and Concrete Action.

Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela is urging g7+ members to strengthen cooperation and mechanisms to help address conflict, build resilience and increase their influence in global decision-making. Speaking on the theme “Charting Concrete Mechanisms for Stability, Self-Reliance, and Resilience,” at the g7+ High-Level Summit at the United Nations Headquarters in New... The post Foreign Minister Calls for Stronger g7+ Cooperation and Concrete Action. appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-09-25 Original ↗

MINISTER GHEMU CALLS FOR URGENT GLOBAL ACTION ON SEA-LEVEL RISE

Minister Wayne Ghemu calls for stronger global action, finance and support to address sea-level rise and protect Pacific communities. Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology& Wayne Ghemu has called for stronger international action to address the growing threats posed by sea-level rise. Speaking at the High-Level Meeting on Addressing the Existential Threats [...] The post MINISTER GHEMU CALLS FOR URGENT GLOBAL ACTION ON SEA-LEVEL RISE appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Politics & Government · 2026-09-25 Original ↗

Community thanks Australia for funding long-awaited parish facility

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU Ruavatu Parish Community representative Erick Robson Miti has thanked Australia for funding a new community Hall which the parish has long been waiting for. Mr Miti made the remarks during the official handover of the Ruavatu Parish Community Hall in East Central Guadalcanal yesterday, attended by representatives from the Australian High Commission, Representatives of Guadalcanal Provincial government, the government, church leaders and nearby communities. He said the new hall was an important facility for the community and would provide space for church, social and other community activities involving youths, women and children. Members of the Australian High Commission team receive a gift during the chupu presentation. Photo credit: John Houanihau. “We from Ruavatu community welcome you to today’s event and for your presence here today to witness the handover of this beautiful Ruavatu Parish Community Hall,” Miti said. He thanked Australia for its support, saying the project had fulfilled a long-standing need of the parish. “This is what our parish has been longing for so long. But because of you intervening, you love the people of Solomon Islands, that’s why you funded this project for us,” he said. Miti also acknowledged Project Coordinator Bradley Lenga, the parish priest and assistant parish priest for their efforts in helping bring the project to reality. He urged the community to take ownership of the facility and ensure it is properly maintained. “It is not belonged to Australia, or the provincial government, or the national government, but it belongs to us,” Miti said. Ruavatu Paramount Chief Erick Tapalia also called on his people to continue working together with their provincial and Member of Parliaments (MPs), government and other stakeholders to address the future needs of the community. AHC Counsellor Political Ms Heather Murphy (right) with Guadalcanal Premier Willie Atu (left) and AHC First Secretary Political Mr Jarrod Scott at the event. Photo credit: John Houanihau. He thanked people from nearby communities who attended the handover and acknowledged the continued support of their MPs and others who contributed towards the completion of the project. Ruavatu Parish Priest Father Desmond Nado said he was filled with joy to see the new facility completed. Fr Desmond Nado said that during his five years as a parish priest, including previous postings in Kirakira and Visale, he had not seen a facility of similar standard. He said the new hall would provide the parish with a proper place for worship and other activities. Fr Nado acknowledged the contribution of Australia and the work of Project Coordinator Bradley Lenga in helping to make the project a reality. He said the completion of the hall demonstrated the importance of communities working together. “Today this parish is transforming,” Fr Nado said. He also revealed that the community plans to extend the facility in the future and appealed for continued cooperation among parishioners and communities to support further development. [Photo: AHC Counsellor Political Ms Heather Murphy (left), Guadalcanal Premier Willie Atu (centre) and Fr Nado cut the ribbon to officially hand over the community hall. Photo credit: John Houanihau.]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-25 Original ↗

Ruavatu parish community takes ownership of new hall

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU THE Ruavatu Parish Community in East Central Guadalcanal has officially taken ownership of its new community hall following its formal handover today. The community project was made possible through the support of the national government, the Guadalcanal Provincial government and funding from the Australian Government through the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership programme. Delivering the keynote address at the handover ceremony, Heather Murphy, Counsellor Political at the Australian High Commission in Honiara, said the project was among 342 community projects Australia is implementing across every constituency and province in Solomon Islands. Heather Murphy, Counsellor Political at the Australian High Commission in Solomon Islands. Photo credit: John Houanihau. “Australia is proud of standing side by side with communities across Solomon Islands. The Ruavatu community project is one of the excellent examples of how Solomon Islands and Australia’s partnership can make a real improvement to the daily lives of people and every community,” she said. Ms Murphy thanked the people of Ruavatu and everyone who worked together to complete the project and make it a reality. “Today, we not only celebrate the opening of this community hall, but we also celebrate a stronger future where we build it together through the Solomon Islands and Australian partnership,” she told the community. Project Coordinator Bradley Lenga also thanked Australia for its support towards the project. Project Coordinator Bradley Lenga. Photo credit: John Houanihau. Mr Lenga said the community understood that thousands of applications were submitted for assistance, but the Ruavatu Parish Community Hall was among the very few successful projects, recognising the community’s needs and priorities. “And for us, we owe the Australian Government through the Australian High Commission, the taxpayers and the Australian people, their donation, their heart. We have to thank you very much,” Mr Lenga told the community and invited guests. He also urged the Australian diplomat and the Australian High Commission’s mission in Solomon Islands to convey the Ruavatu community’s appreciation to the Australian Government. “Thank you. Thank you so much for your kindness, concern and money for much-needed projects like this one. Our friend in need is a friend indeed. And we need to say, I am in need, and we communicate as a friend. And Ruavatu Parish Community has been longing for a very long time,” Mr Lenga said. [The newly handed-over Ruavatu Parish Community Hall in East Central Guadalcanal. Photo credit: John Houanihau.]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-24 Original ↗

North Guadalcanal Constituency gives $100,000 to two churches

The Solomon Islands Government portal said the North Guadalcanal Constituency Office provided $50,000.00 each to two Anglican churches preparing for consecration.

Solomon Times Politics & Government · 2026-09-24 Original ↗

Ministry says Koehoto and Suta groups sign boundary agreement

The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Survey said the Koehoto and Suta landholding groups signed a Common Boundary Agreement on Saturday, 19 September 2026.

Solomon Times Politics & Government · 2026-09-23 Original ↗

PM Wale joins world leaders for the opening of UNGA

BY CHARLES STENNETT Prime Minister Matthew Wale joined world leaders and heads of government at the United Nations Headquarters in New York for the opening of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister said the general debate which commenced on Tuesday brings together leaders from across the world to address pressing global challenges under the theme “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” Opening the general debate, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged the difficult global environment facing the international community, including ongoing conflicts, geopolitical divisions and growing pressure on the multilateral system. He stressed the continuing importance of international cooperation and the role of the United Nations in addressing global challenges including peace and security, climate change and emerging challenges associated with artificial intelligence. United States President Donald Trump also addressed the General Debate as world leaders gathered for the opening day of the high-level segment. The Prime Minister is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly on Friday September 25. The Prime Minister is also schedule to hold a series of bilateral meetings on the margins of the General Assembly. [Photo: Solomon Islands delegation at the 81 st UNGA. Prime Minister Wale (left) Minister for Foreign Affairs Rick Hou (centre) and Minister for Development Planning, Peter Kenilorea Junior (right). Photo Credit: PMO.]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-23 Original ↗

Opposition Questions Solomon Islands’ Failure to Exercise Its UN Vote on Palestine Resolution

Solomon Islands Opposition questions why the Government did not exercise its vote on a UN resolution concerning Palestine. The Official Opposition has expressed serious concern over the decision of the Solomon Islands Government not to exercise the country’s vote during the United Nations General Assembly’s consideration of a resolution concerning the participation of the State [...] The post Opposition Questions Solomon Islands’ Failure to Exercise Its UN Vote on Palestine Resolution appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Politics & Government · 2026-09-22 Original ↗

Pacific Journalists conclude digital accelerator workshop

BY LORETTA B MANELE In Savusavu, Fiji Six Journalists from Solomon Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa, and Palau have concluded a two-day Digital Accelerator Workshop today in Savusavu, Fiji. The workshop supported by Pacific Media Assistance Scheme (PACMAS), ABC was carried out by facilitators, Grant Sherlock, Digital transformative advisor from ABC International Development, Daniela Pizzirani, Digital journalist and producer from ABC News Digital and James Maasdorp, PACMAS Digital training lead. Workshop facilitator and PACMAS Digital training lead, James Maasdorp speaking during the training.Photo credit: Loretta B Manele Speaking to Island Sun today during the second and final day of the workshop, Mr Maasdorp said the digital workshop is about looking at taking both content and digital strategy to the next level. “It’s taking previous trainees who’ve been part of PACMAS digital training before and just helping them take that next step”, he said. Maasdorp said on the first day of the workshop, Monday, September 21, journalists looked at blockers or challenges facing their newsrooms and how to make their social media and web content more ‘mobile first’. “Looking at how to make it easier for readers when using a mobile phone”, he said. Maasdorp said today’s session was about how to make newsrooms more aware of what their audiences want. This digital workshop is a pre-summit session that leads up to the PINA Summit which will commence from Wednesday, September 23 to Friday, September 25, 2026 at Savusavu, Fiji. [Photo: A group photo of Pacific journalists who attended the Digital Accelerator Workshop in Savusavu.Photo credit: Loretta B Manele]

Island Sun Politics & Government · 2026-09-22 Original ↗

Australia caps backpacker visa extensions, opening room for PALM, Howes says

Development Policy Centre director Stephen Howes said Australia's cut of 84 per cent to third-year backpacker visa extensions granted for regional work is a significant opportunity for the PALM labour mobility scheme.

Solomon Times Politics & Government · 2026-09-22 Original ↗

UXO Director says 114,560 items destroyed in Solomon Islands

UXO Director Benzily Kasutaba, speaking at Palau, said unexploded ordnance still threatens communities, land access and development, according to a government statement.

Solomon Times Politics & Government · 2026-09-22 Original ↗

Why Solomon Islands PM Had to Apologise to Albanese

by Andrew Brown of AAP in New York City A comprehensive treaty between Australia and the Solomon Islands would be transformational for the broader Pacific region, Anthony Albanese has declared. The prime minister met with his Solomon Islands counterpart Matthew Wale on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in... The post Why Solomon Islands PM Had to Apologise to Albanese appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Politics & Government · 2026-09-22 Original ↗