AGP Executive Report

Pacific Security: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale floated a Pacific-wide security pact during talks in Canberra, pushing for a “Pacific-led” security architecture and signaling he wants China kept out of major Pacific security roles, while also saying the China-Solomon pact text may not be released due to a non-disclosure clause. Governance & Unity: Governor-General Tiva Kapu urged Solomon Islanders to protect democracy and act urgently on climate change, youth unemployment and drug abuse after the country’s recent political impasse. Coastal Tourism & Environment: Honiara’s World Environment Day clean-up campaign highlighted how healthy coasts and marine life support tourism, culture and livelihoods. Culture & Community Stays: NATPAN panpipe festival (July 1–5) will host visiting groups with host families in Honiara to keep benefits flowing to communities. Sports Pathways: Guadalcanal Provincial Games gear up next week, while Solomon Islands athletes continue Commonwealth Games preparations in Australia. Fisheries Skills: FFA opened nominations for a Certificate IV in Fisheries Enforcement and Compliance (starting Sept 7) to strengthen offshore enforcement across the region. Road Safety: Honiara roadworks on Mendana Avenue continue, with authorities asking drivers and pedestrians to follow traffic controllers’ instructions.

Pacific Security: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale floated a Pacific-wide security pact during talks in Canberra, framing it as “Pacific-led” regionalism and saying he’ll “review” the China-Solomon Islands security deal—while also refusing to publish the China pact text for legal reasons. Sports & Tourism Calendar: Guadalcanal Province is gearing up for the Guadalcanal Provincial Games 2026 next week (July 6–10), with seven approved sports and a focus on picking athletes for the Solomon Games. Commonwealth Games Pathway: Para-powerlifter Moffat Tolomae qualified for Glasgow 2026 after an Australian-backed programme, while weightlifting champion Jenly Wini begins a four-week training camp in Melbourne. Coastal Conservation: Honiara’s World Environment Day clean-up campaign highlighted how healthy coasts and marine life support tourism, culture and livelihoods. Fisheries Skills: FFA opened nominations for a Certificate IV in Fisheries Enforcement and Compliance (Cohort 12) starting 7 Sept 2026. Road Safety: Honiara road users were reminded to follow traffic management rules during Mendana Avenue works. Culture & Community Hosting: NATPAN (July 1–5) plans to house visiting panpipe groups with host families and relatives to share festival benefits locally.

Democracy & Youth Priorities: Governor-General Tiva Kapu urged Solomon Islanders to protect democracy and tackle climate change, youth unemployment and drug abuse, pointing to the recent political impasse as a stress test of constitutional safeguards. Pacific Security Shift: New PM Matthew Wale floated a Pacific-wide security treaty during talks in Canberra, while also saying the China security pact may stay unpublished due to a legal non-disclosure clause—an issue with big implications for regional travel and business confidence. Coastal Tourism & Clean-Up: A Honiara coastal clean-up campaign tied to World Environment Day highlighted beaches and marine ecosystems as key to tourism, recreation and culture, with communities and schools leading restoration work. Festival Hosting Plan (NATPAN): The Culture Division says visiting panpipe groups for NATPAN (July 1–5) will be hosted by relatives and host families in Honiara, aiming to push festival benefits straight to communities. Road Safety for Visitors: MID reminded road users about ongoing Mendana Avenue roadworks and asked for patience and respect toward traffic controllers. Sports Tourism Boost: Solomon Islands U23 3×3 teams and weightlifter Jenly Wini are heading to regional and international competitions, adding fresh momentum for athletes and fans.

Pacific Security & Politics: Solomon Islands’ Governor-General Tiva Kapu urged unity and urgency as the country tackles youth unemployment, drug abuse and climate change, pointing to the recent 9-week political impasse and the judiciary’s role in keeping democracy on track. Regional Security Shift: New PM Matthew Wale has floated a Pacific-wide security pact with Australia, while saying the China-Solomon Islands security agreement may not be released due to a legal non-disclosure clause. Coastal & Tourism Environment: A week-long Honiara coastal clean-up tied to World Environment Day highlighted how healthy beaches and marine ecosystems support tourism, culture and livelihoods. Tourism & Community Culture: NATPAN panpipe festival planning for July 1–5 focuses on sharing benefits with communities, with visiting groups hosted by relatives and host families in Honiara. Road Safety for Visitors: MID reminded road users about active roadworks on Mendana Avenue and asked for patience around traffic controllers. Sports for Travel: Solomon Islands U23 3×3 teams head to New Caledonia for an Oceania Nations League Cup, with qualification stakes for the U23 World Cup. EU Cooperation: The EU says it’s shifting toward more investment-driven cooperation with the new government after a three-day visit, including discussions on energy, agriculture and fisheries. Energy & Tourism Risk: A Pacific fuel-price shock story flags how imported oil dependence can hit tourism and calls for faster renewable energy delivery.

Warm-water expedition cruising: A new push in “warm-water” expedition cruises is boosting interest in Melanesia itineraries, with operators pointing to rising bookings for adventurous, experience-led trips (not just beach holidays). Coastal stewardship for tourism: Honiara’s World Environment Day clean-up at Rove Children’s Park highlighted how healthy beaches and marine life support livelihoods, recreation, culture, and tourism—plus a call for community-led protection. EU backs investment in Solomon Islands: The EU says it’s shifting toward more investment-driven cooperation after a three-day visit, discussing climate resilience, infrastructure, green growth, and future support around sites like Bina Harbour. Strong winds warning: SIMS issued a strong wind warning for Rennell and Bellona, parts of Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu, and the Russells, urging sea travellers to take extreme caution. Pacific safety watch: After a major earthquake in the southern Philippines, regional agencies including Solomon Islands are monitoring for possible tsunami impacts, with coastal alerts in place. Roadworks reminder (Honiara): MID asked road users to cooperate with traffic controllers and follow signs around Mendana Avenue work zones. NATPAN accommodation plan: Culture Division says visiting panpipe groups for NATPAN (July 1–5) will stay with host families and relatives in Honiara, with utilities and food support to spread benefits locally. Digital finance push: M-SELEN’s 3rd anniversary rewards promotion runs June 11–Oct 2, encouraging everyday mobile transactions with weekly prize draws. Tourism-linked youth support: Kaloka Youth Association received a vehicle via an MCT and YECSI grant partnership aimed at backing young entrepreneurs in tourism-related activities.

Warm-Water Expedition Cruising: A new push in travel is boosting demand for “warm-water” expedition cruises across places like Melanesia, with operators saying travellers want richer, experience-led trips beyond beach holidays. Coastal Stewardship for Tourism: Honiara’s World Environment Day clean-up at Rove Children’s Park highlighted how healthy beaches and marine life support livelihoods, culture, recreation and tourism—plus a call for communities and businesses to protect what protects them. EU Investment Focus: The EU wrapped a three-day visit to Solomon Islands, signalling more investment-driven cooperation around climate resilience, green growth, infrastructure and governance, including discussions tied to the proposed Bina Harbour site. Weather & Sea Safety: SIMS issued a strong wind warning for Rennell and Bellona, parts of Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russells, urging sea travellers—especially small-boat operators—to take extreme caution. Tourism Disruption Risk: A powerful earthquake in the southern Philippines has triggered a Pacific-wide tsunami advisory that includes Solomon Islands, with coastal monitoring on alert and guidance to move away from beaches and harbours if in advisory areas. Roadworks Reminder: Honiara road users were urged to cooperate with traffic controllers during ongoing Mendana Avenue works, with safety and patience stressed for active work zones. Culture & Community Hosting: NATPAN panpipe festival planning for July 1–5 aims to share benefits directly with host families and communities in Honiara, including support for utilities and food. Tourism Skills Support: Kaloka Youth Association received a vehicle via the MCT and YECSI grant partnership, backing youth involvement in tourism-related business.

Tourism Safety Alert: A strong wind warning from SIMS is in effect for Rennell and Bellona, parts of Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russell Islands, with rough seas and swells up to 3 metres—sea travellers are urged to use extreme caution. Humanitarian & Heritage: The U.S. Embassy Honiara says a DPAA and Solomon Islands MOU signed June 3 will support recovery and repatriation of World War II remains, building on a September 2025 ceremony near Mount Austen. EU Investment Push: The EU reaffirmed its commitment to Solomon Islands after a three-day visit, flagging more investment-driven cooperation around infrastructure, climate resilience and economic growth, including discussions on the proposed Bina Harbour site. Culture & Community Travel: NATPAN (July 1–5) will host visiting panpipe groups with performers staying with relatives and host families in Honiara, with utilities and food support aimed at sharing festival benefits locally. Road Travel Reminder: MID asks Honiara road users to be patient and follow signs during ongoing Mendana Avenue roadworks, after an incident involving a traffic controller. Sports for Visitors: Solomon Islands U23 3×3 teams depart for New Caledonia (June 11–17) with U23 World Cup qualification on the line. Digital Money Boost: M-SELEN’s 3rd anniversary rewards promotion runs June 11–Oct 2, encouraging everyday digital transactions with weekly prize draws. Clean Water Progress: UNICEF’s WASH work in North Guadalcanal is improving safe water and sanitation access for communities and schools.

EU Investment Push: The EU says it’s reaffirming its long-standing partnership with Solomon Islands, shifting toward more investment-driven cooperation after a three-day visit focused on climate resilience, green growth, infrastructure and governance, including talks on the proposed Bina Harbour site. Weather & Safety: SIMS issued a strong winds warning for Rennell and Bellona, parts of Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russell Islands, with rough seas and swells up to 3 metres—sea travellers are urged to take extreme caution. Tourism Culture: The Culture Division says NATPAN (July 1–5) will spread festival benefits to communities by hosting visiting panpipe groups with relatives and host families in Honiara, with support for utilities like water, electricity and food. Sports & Travel: Solomon Islands U23 3×3 teams depart for New Caledonia for an Oceania Nations League Cup, with qualification to the U23 World Cup on the line. Roadworks Reminder: MID asks Honiara road users to be patient and follow traffic management rules along Mendana Avenue during ongoing works. Humanitarian Link: The US and Solomon Islands signed an MOU to support recovery and repatriation of WWII POW/MIA remains.

EU investment push: The EU wrapped up a three-day visit to Solomon Islands, reaffirming support while shifting toward more investment-led cooperation on climate resilience, green growth, infrastructure and governance, including talks on the proposed Bina Harbour site. Sports funding for Honiara: The 2023 Pacific Games organising committee launched a SBD50,000 programme to help Solomon Islands national sports federations get ready for the Games and beyond. Football tech for fans: OFC Pro League VAR is now secured for the next three years, and LiveU says remote VAR has been deployed across the Pacific for the first time—covering Solomon Islands among other nations. Culture festival stays local: NATPAN (July 1–5) will house visiting panpipe groups with host families and relatives in Honiara, with utilities and food support aimed at sharing festival benefits with communities. Road travel reminder: Honiara road users are urged to be patient and follow signs during Mendana Avenue roadworks after an incident involving a traffic controller. Safety alerts: SIMS issued strong wind warnings for several provinces and sea travellers, with rough seas and poor visibility expected. Tourism-relevant recovery: UNICEF’s WASH work in North Guadalcanal is improving safe water and sanitation for communities and schools. Regional quake watch: A powerful Philippines earthquake triggered tsunami monitoring across the Pacific, including Solomon Islands, with coastal alerts in place. POW/MIA cooperation: A June 3 MOU between the US and Solomon Islands formalises recovery and repatriation of WWII remains, with continued collaboration led by the Culture Ministry and National Museum.

Weather & Safety: SIMS issued a strong winds warning for Rennell/Bellona, southern Makira, Western Province, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russell Islands, with 20–25 knot winds and rough seas (2.5–3.0m swells), urging sea travellers—especially small boats—to take extra care. Tourism & Community Culture: The National Panpipe Festival (NATPAN, July 1–5) will shift accommodation to host families and relatives in Honiara, with utilities and food support to help festival benefits flow back to communities. EU Investment Focus: The EU reaffirmed its commitment to Solomon Islands after a three-day visit, signalling more investment-driven cooperation around infrastructure, climate resilience and economic growth, including discussions on the proposed Bina Harbour site. Sports & Travel Demand: The 2023 Pacific Games funding programme has launched (SBD50,000) to strengthen national federations ahead of Honiara events, while Solomon Islands U23 3×3 teams depart for New Caledonia with U23 World Cup qualification on the line. Humanitarian Heritage: A DPAA–Solomon Islands MOU signed June 3 formalises recovery and repatriation of WWII remains, building on a September 2025 repatriation ceremony. Regional Disruption Watch: A powerful Philippines earthquake has triggered Pacific tsunami monitoring advisories that include Solomon Islands, with coastal agencies urged to follow local guidance.

Pacific Games Funding: The 2023 Pacific Games organising committee in Honiara has launched a SBD50,000 (US$6,200) funding programme to help Solomon Islands national sports federations strengthen operations ahead of and beyond the Games, with weightlifting, golf and volleyball among the first to sign up. Football & Tourism Tech: The OFC Pro League has secured funding for the next three years, with the inaugural season played across New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Solomon Islands and PNG—while LiveU says remote VAR is now possible across the Pacific, including Solomon Islands. Culture & Visitor Stays: The National Panpipe Festival (NATPAN) is set for July 1–5, with the Culture Division planning to host visiting panpipe groups with relatives and host families in Honiara to spread festival benefits to communities. Road Safety: MID is urging patience on Mendana Avenue in Honiara as roadworks continue, after an incident involving a traffic controller. Weather Alerts: SIMS has issued strong wind warnings for Rennell/Bellona, parts of Makira, Western, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russells, advising sea travellers to take extreme care. EU Investment Focus: The EU says it will shift toward more investment-driven cooperation with Solomon Islands after a three-day visit, including talks on infrastructure and climate resilience. Clean Water & Sanitation: UNICEF-backed WASH work in North Guadalcanal is improving safe water and sanitation in communities like Popoloi and Mbebe. Tourism & Youth Enterprise: Tourism Solomons has signed on as a major sponsor for ‘Aelan Riddim 26’ in Honiara, and MCT/YECSI has delivered a vehicle to the Kaloka Youth Association to support tourism-linked youth business.

Sports Funding for Tourism-Ready Honiara: The 2023 Pacific Games Games Organising Committee has launched a SBD50,000 funding programme to strengthen Solomon Islands national sports federations ahead of and beyond the Honiara event. Football in the Islands: The OFC Pro League says its first-ever professional league is financially secured for the next three years, with the inaugural season played across New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Solomon Islands and PNG. Digital Money Push: M-SELEN’s 3rd anniversary “Celebrate with M-SELEN” rewards campaign runs June 11 to Oct 2, encouraging Solomon Islanders to use digital services for everyday payments. Road Safety Reminder: Honiara’s Ministry of Infrastructure Development urges patience and respect for traffic controllers during Mendana Avenue roadworks. Weather for Travellers: SIMS has issued strong wind warnings for several provinces and sea areas, with rough seas and poor visibility expected. Regional Emergency Watch: After a major earthquake in the southern Philippines, tsunami monitoring is on alert across parts of the Pacific including Solomon Islands. EU Investment Focus: The EU reaffirmed its commitment to Solomon Islands, signalling more investment-driven cooperation after a three-day visit. Tourism & Culture: Tourism Solomons is back as a major sponsor of Honiara’s Aelan Riddim 26 music festival on May 30.

Tourism & Travel Disruption: Solomon Islands tourism faces a real headwind as UNICEF warns that open defecation and poor waste management are damaging visitor experiences, especially along coasts and near communities. Clean Water & Community Health: A WASH push in North Guadalcanal is improving safe water and sanitation, reducing the need for long walks and helping protect families and students. Road Access & Visitor Safety: Honiara roadworks on Mendana Avenue continue, with the Ministry of Infrastructure Development urging drivers and pedestrians to follow traffic controllers and posted signs. Weather for Travelers: SIMS has issued strong wind warnings for Rennell/Bellona, parts of Makira, Western, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russells, advising sea travellers to take extra caution. EU Investment Focus: The EU reaffirmed support for Solomon Islands with a shift toward more investment-driven cooperation, including infrastructure and economic growth. Culture & Events: Tourism Solomons is backing “Aelan Riddim 26” in Honiara, a regional music festival that should draw visitors and spotlight local talent.

Bougainville & Regional Diplomacy: Prime Minister Matthew Wale says Bougainville independence could come up at upcoming Pacific leader talks, including planned discussions with PNG PM James Marape. Secret Security Deal: Wale also says Solomon Islands can’t publish its high-profile China security pact due to a non-disclosure clause, while pushing for visa-free access talks with Australia. Road Safety in Honiara: MID urges drivers to slow down and be patient through Mendana Avenue roadworks after an incident involving a traffic controller. Weather Watch: SIMS issues strong wind warnings for Rennell/Bellona, parts of Makira, Western, Guadalcanal, Temotu and the Russells, with rough seas and poor visibility. Tourism & Cleanliness: UNICEF warns open defecation and poor waste management are hurting visitor appeal, linking sanitation to tourism growth. EU Investment Focus: The EU reaffirms support and signals more investment-driven cooperation, including discussions around Bina Harbour. Pacific Travel Disruption Risk: A powerful Philippines earthquake has triggered tsunami monitoring across the wider Pacific, including Solomon Islands. Sports & Youth: U23 3×3 teams and weightlifting champion Jenly Wini depart for regional and Commonwealth Games preparations. Culture on the Calendar: Tourism Solomons backs “Aelan Riddim 26” in Honiara.

Tourism & Culture: Tourism Solomons has signed on as a major sponsor of Honiara’s “Aelan Riddim 26” on Saturday, 30 May, backing a bigger regional line-up that brings artists from PNG, Fiji and Vanuatu alongside 14 Solomon Islands acts. Road Safety: Honiara road users are being urged to stay patient and follow signs during ongoing Mendana Avenue roadworks, after an incident where a pedestrian slapped a traffic controller. Sports (U23 Pathway): Solomon Islands’ men’s and women’s 3×3 U23 teams have departed for New Caledonia’s Oceania Nations League Cup, with the winner earning U23 World Cup qualification. Tourism Infrastructure: Western Province Premier Billy Veo wants the Nusatupe Airport Terminal upgrade fast-tracked, saying delays are hurting the travel experience for a top tourism destination. Clean Water & Sanitation: UNICEF reports improving WASH in North Guadalcanal communities is easing daily struggles with unsafe water and sanitation. EU Investment Focus: The EU says it’s shifting toward more investment-driven cooperation after a high-level visit, including discussions on infrastructure and development priorities. Weather Alert: SIMS has issued strong wind warnings for several provinces and sea areas, advising extra caution for small boats.

Road Safety in Honiara: MID is urging drivers and pedestrians to stay patient and follow signs around Mendana Avenue roadworks (Heritage Park Roundabout to Honiara City Council Roundabout) after an incident where a traffic controller was slapped by an impatient pedestrian. Tourism & Cleanliness: UNICEF warns that open defecation and poor waste management are hurting Solomon Islands tourism growth, while a week-long coastal clean-up campaign in Honiara targets littered beaches and public areas. EU Investment Push: The EU reaffirmed its commitment to Solomon Islands, shifting toward more investment-driven cooperation after a three-day visit that included talks on infrastructure and development priorities. Weather Alert: SIMS issued a strong winds warning for several provinces and waters, advising sea travellers—especially small boat operators—to take extra caution. Travel-Ready Energy for Visitors: Heritage Park Hotel commissioned a large solar-plus-battery system to cut diesel and keep power steady for guests. Local Market Upgrade: Buala Market in Isabel Province has opened with climate-resilient features (water storage, solar lighting, accessible toilets/showers), improving vendor comfort and access. Sports Tourism Moment: Solomon Islands U23 3×3 teams depart for New Caledonia with U23 World Cup qualification at stake.