MINISTER OF DEFENCE VISIT TO
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SOLOMON ISLANDS
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Briefing Document
6 – 9 August 2022
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NZDF photo: New Zealand and Fiji Commanders during Operation Solomon Islands Assist
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CONTENTS
TAB ONE: SOLOMON ISLANDS VISIT OVERVIEW _______________________________ 5
Visit objectives and overview ________________________________________________ 6
Visit programme __________________________________________________________ 7
Health and safety considerations _____________________________________________ 8
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TAB TWO: MEETING BRIEFS ________________________________________________ 9
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Formal message: Prime Minister Ardern bilateral with Solomon Islands Prime Minister
Manasseh Sogavare at the Pacific Islands Forum (13 July 2022)____________________ 12
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eeting with Minister for National Security & Correctional Services, Anthony Veke _ 16
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Meeting with United States Deputy Secretary of State, Wendy Sherman __________ 23
TAB THREE: BACKGROUND BRIEFS_________________________________________ 31
Defence Engagement with Solomon Islands____________________________________ 32
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Solomon Islands Deployment _______________________________________________ 34
New Zealand Support to Solomon Islands on Maritime Security_____________________ 36
Formal Message: Secretary of Defence meeting with Solomons Permanent Secretary on
Maritime Security – 4 July 2022 _____________________________________________ 38
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Solomon Islands – China Security Agreement __________________________________ 40
Forum Fisheries Agency ___________________________________________________ 42
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Policing support in Solomon Islands __________________________________________ 44
MFAT Country Paper – Solomon Islands ______________________________________ 46
Biography: Australia Head of Delegation Pat Conroy, Minister for International Development
and the Pacific __________________________________________________________ 49
Additional Talking Points – Australia __________________________________________ 50
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Biography: Japan Head of Delegation State Minister ONIKI Makoto _________________ 51
Biography: General YAMAZAKI Koji __________________________________________ 51
Biography: Vice Admiral SAITO Akira _________________________________________ 51
Additional Talking Points - Japan ____________________________________________ 52
Biography: US Head of Delegation Wendy Sherman, US Deputy Secretary of State _____ 53
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Biography: Caroline Kennedy, Ambassador to Australia ___________________________ 53
New Zealand’s Involvement in Solomon Islands During WWII ______________________ 54
Formal Message: 51st Pacific Islands Forum report – 28 July 2022 __________________ 57
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TAB ONE: SOLOMON ISLANDS VISIT
OVERVIEW
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Visit objectives and overview
Your visit to Solomon Islands is to attend commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the
Battle of Guadalcanal, providing the opportunity to engage with the Solomon Islands
Government and deployed New Zealand Defence Force personnel, alongside paying respects
to those who fought in the Solomon Islands during WWII.
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This will be the first visit to Solomon Islands from a New Zealand Minister since the introduction
of COVID-19 restrictions.
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Programme overview
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Your programme dedicates time to Guadalcanal commemorative events to recognise the 80th
anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal, hosted by the nations principally involved in the
conflict; the United States, Japan, Australia and Solomon Islands.
While New Zealand was not initially involved in this operation, New Zealand forces became
subsequently involved in the naval battles around the island, the RNZAF conducted air
operations form Solomon Islands and the Army used this location as a base for island hopping
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operations. There will be no specific New Zealand commemoration.
[Handling note: a historical
background brief on Guadalcanal is included under tab three].
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The programme also includes a visit to NZDF personnel deployed to the Solomon Islands
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Assistance Force (SIAF) and Forum Fisheries Agency to provide a deeper insight into maritime
patrolling in the Pacific.
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Visit programme
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Accommodation
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The New Zealand delegation is staying across three hotels in Honiara due to accommodation
availability during the Guadalcanal commemoration period. The three hotels are in close
proximity to one another (refer map below).
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You will be residing at the Heritage Park Hotel, with other VIPs (including Secretary of Defence,
Commander Joint Forces) located a three minute walk away at the Mendana Hotel. The rest of
the New Zealand delegation will be at the King Solomon Hotel.
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TAB TWO: MEETING BRIEFS
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Formal message: Prime Minister Ardern bilateral with Solomon Islands Prime Minister
Manasseh Sogavare at the Pacific Islands Forum (13 July 2022)
RĀPOPOTO – SUMMARY
Prime Minister Ardern and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare held a formal
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bilateral meeting in the margins of Pacific Islands Forum in Suva. The Prime Ministers traversed
a range of bilateral and regional issues including the Solomon Islands-China security
agreement; Covid-19 response and recovery; economic support; and strategic competition. The
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Prime Minister sought Sogavare’s perspectives on Solomon Islands’ security needs s6(
, recalling Aotearoa New Zealand’s long-standing
security and policing relationship with Solomon Islands. If Solomon Islands identified any
specific security gaps or needs, Prime Minister Ardern reassured Sogavare that Aotearoa
New Zealand would actively consider ways it could help fulfil these.
s6(a)
HOHENGA – ACTION
Information
For information.
PŪRONGO – REPORT
1.
Prime Ministers Ardern and Sogavare held a formal 45 minute bilateral at the Official
Official
Residence in Suva on Wednesday 13 July. Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta attended – as did
her counterpart Jeremiah Manele. Senior officials in attendance included
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, DS PDG (Needs), Acting DM PACREG (McIvor) and the respective
High Commissioners to Fiji (Darlow) and Joseph Ma’ahanua.
2.
New Zealand media were present for short opening remarks, in which both Leaders
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highlighted the strength and depth of the bilateral relationship. Leaders exchanged gifts (a
Matariki book and a shell money necklace respectively) and recalled their shared experiences
of studying at Waikato University.
COVID-19 recovery and economic update
3.
Prime Minister Ardern commenced by asking Sogavare for his reflections on the
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domestic Covid-19 and economic situations in light of border closures and pressures on health
systems and supply chains.
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Prime Minister Ardern noted that Aotearoa New Zealand
was similarly experiencing chal enges in the ‘global reconnection’ phase and was open to
discussions on how to continue to support Solomon Islands deal with Covid-19’s health and
economic impacts.
Security situation
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4.
Turning to security matters, Prime Minister Ardern highlighted the interdependence
between economic well-being and stability: “if we don’t have economic security, it impacts on
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broader security – both are interlinked”. On the latter, the Prime Minister noted New Zealand’s
support for the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police (PICP), and underscored the well-established
community policing model as practised in Aotearoa New Zealand, Solomon Islands, and shared
across our region. Aotearoa New Zealand had been supporting Solomon Islands for years s6(
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7.
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On policing, Prime Minister Ardern observed that New Zealand, like the Pacific, policed
by consent.
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Minister Mahuta confirmed that Aotearoa New Zealand’s
policing support would be extended by 24 months with extra funding, demonstrating our
commitment to Solomon Islands’ security priorities.
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s6(a)
We had responded
to Solomon Islands’ request for security support last November as soon as practicable, and
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looked forward to further discussions on how to ensure we, alongside Australia and others in
the region, continued to meet the security needs of Solomon Islands.
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Prime Minister Ardern emphasised New Zealand’s broader commitment to consult with
and work alongside Pacific partners on security issues,
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New Zealand was keen for the region to “lean towards each other” on
security issues
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TĀKUPU – COMMENT
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Meeting with Minister for National Security & Correctional Services, Anthony Veke
Purpose
1.
Strengthen your
relationship with Minister Veke following your bilateral engagement at the
Shangri-La Dialogue.
2.
Highlight the importance of New Zealand’s security engagement with Solomon Islands, 1982
including our willingness to support to the development of their Maritime Security Strategy.
3.
Explore opportunities for further engagement with Minister Veke,
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Biography
First elected to national parliament in 2019, Veke was the Minister of
Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening prior to the
September 2019 Cabinet reshuffle, when he was appointed Minister of
Police, National Security and Correctional Services.
Between 2006 and 2018 Veke held a number of senior positions in the
Guadalcanal Provincial Government, including several ministerial
positions, Deputy Premier, and Premier.
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You last met with Minister Veke in June 2022 at the Shangri-La
Dialogue.
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Key messages
Introductory remarks
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Welcome Minister Veke’s insights into other areas where Solomon Islands is seeking
support. Also welcome Solomon Islands input as we develop our own Defence Policy
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Review.
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Engaging on geostrategic challenges as a region
In navigating a challenging geostrategic environment, our firm view is that we are stronger
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when we work together as a region.
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New Zealand's strong view is that issues with regional impact should be discussed as a
region through the Pacific Islands Forum.
New Zealand is firmly committed to working together as a Pacific family to meet our region’s
security needs, as set out in the
Biketawa and
Boe Declarations, and the
2050 Strategy for
the Blue Pacific Continent agreed at the PIF Leaders’ meeting.
It was positive to see
Leaders reaffirm the concept of regionalism and a family first approach to peace and
security, in this year’s Pacific Islands Forum communique
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If raised: New Zealand policing support
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New Zealand is committed to our longstanding and close partnership with Solomon Islands,
including on security matters.
We remain ready to support Solomon Islands, and will continue to do so.
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Meeting with United States Deputy Secretary of State, Wendy Sherman
TBC: Sunday 7 August, 1800-1830
Purpose
The US Deputy Secretary of State is visiting New Zealand as part of
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a wider tour of the Pacific, following her visit to Solomon Islands for
the Guadalcanal commemorations. We are seeking a bilateral
meeting for you and Deputy Secretary Sherman in Honiara s6(b)(i)
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Deputy Secretary Sherman will then meet
meet Prime Minister Ardern and a range of officials in New Zealand
on Tuesday 9 August.
The objectives for this meeting are to:
1. Reinforce New Zealand’s value as a defence and security
partner.
2. Reaffirm New Zealand’s commitment to the international rules-
based system.
3. Welcome opportunities to work together to support the needs of Pacific countries,
including on climate change – the Pacific’s greatest self-identified security concern.
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Biography and context
Wendy R. Sherman was confirmed by the Senate on 13 April 2021 and sworn in as the 21st and
first female Deputy Secretary of State on 14 April 2021. Prior to assuming this position, Deputy
Secretary Sherman was professor of the practice of public leadership and director of the Center
for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School. She was also a Senior Fellow at the
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School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, and a Senior Counselor at Albright
Stonebridge Group.
From 2011-2015, Deputy Secretary Sherman served as Under Secretary of State for Political
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Affairs, where she travelled to 54 countries and led the US negotiating team that reached
agreement on the Iran Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action for which, among other diplomatic
accomplishments, she was awarded the National Security Medal by President Barack Obama.
She previously served at the State Department as Counselor under Secretary Madeleine
Albright, as Special Advisor to President Clinton and Policy Coordinator on North Korea, and as
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Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs under Secretary Warren Christopher.
She also previously served on the President’s Intel igence Advisory Board, was Chair of the
Board of Directors of Oxfam America, and served on the US Department of Defense’s Policy
Board and Congressional Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction,
Proliferation, and Terrorism.
Deputy Secretary Sherman attended Smith College, and received a B.A. cum laude from Boston
University and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland.
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She is married to Bruce Stokes and has a daughter, Sarah, and two grandsons.
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o the entry into service of the new tanker
Aotearoa and dive-hydro vessel
Manawanui;
and
o New armoured
Bushmaster vehicles and networked communications for the Army.
The cumulative expenditure on these and other projects has lifted New Zealand’s defence
expenditure.
I have launched a Defence Policy Review. This will help shape our future investments to
ensure they are relevant to the challenges identified in in our recent Defence Assessment..
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Background
Military Information
Defence budget
US$801 billion (2021) – around 3.5 per cent of GDP
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Military personnel
Total – approx. 2.2 million
Active – approx. 1.4 million
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Reserve – approx. 857,000
Deployments (as
UN Command and UN Military Armistice Commission
applicable)
(Republic of Korea)
Op Gallant Phoenix (Jordan)
Multinational Force and Observers (Egypt)
Defence relationship milestones
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Joint Logistics Pool to support Antarctic research established with the US
(Defence cooperation in this area continued throughout the period of the 1984-
2012 ‘rift’).
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NZ Government refused diplomatic clearance for a visit to New Zealand by a US
Navy warship, as a result of which US ‘suspended’ its responsibilities for NZ
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under ANZUS and curtailed defence relations. At the heart of the issue was
disagreement over New Zealand’s anti-nuclear policies.
the
2010
Wellington Declaration on a new strategic partnership between New Zealand and
the US, signed by respective Ministers of Foreign Affairs.
2012
Washington Declaration on Defence Cooperation, which signalled the re-birth of
the bilateral defence relationship.
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2016
The visit by USS Sampson to New Zealand for the Royal New Zealand Navy’s
(RNZN) 75th Anniversary in November 2016; the first by a US warship since the
1984 rift. Along with a number of vessels in New Zealand for this event, the ship
assisted with the response to the Kaikoura earthquake.
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Bilateral defence relationship
The US is an essential security, intelligence, and defence partner for New Zealand. The US has
the largest security and defence capability globally, and we have shared interests in a safe,
prosperous, and sustainable world.
2.
New Zealand’s defence engagement with the US is broad and deep, and spans almost
all NZDF capabilities. Engagement occurs at all levels and includes shared defence
deployments, maritime security, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and humanitarian assistance.
3.
There is a high tempo to bilateral defence engagement, supported by the interoperability
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of our forces and the platforms they use. New Zealand and the US regularly participate in joint
training exercises, across a large number of domains. New Zealand places great value in these
exercises, which make a significant contribution to the generation of NZDF capability. NZDF is
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currently participating in Exercise RIMPAC, which kicked off in late June.
4.
The visit of the USS Howard to New Zealand in November 2021 was a positive
engagement for our two navies and a clear symbol of our close bilateral relationship. The USS
Howard’s visit was the second US Navy ship visit since the 1980s and the introduction of New
Zealand’s nuclear-free legislation, following the visit of the USS Sampson in 2016 for the Royal
New Zealand Navy’s 75th anniversary, and which was diverted to Kaikoura to assist with
response efforts in the aftermath of the 2016 earthquake.
Defence cooperation
5.
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As the US continues to promote its concept of “integrated deterrence” (al of government
and working in partnership with like-minded countries), which will feature heavily in its upcoming
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National Defense Strategy,
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The New Zealand Ministry of Defence has agreed to chair the INDOPACOM Pacific
Environmental Security Partnership Policy Working Group (PWG) and is currently drafting a
three-year work plan.
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New Zealand hosted the Forum in 2019
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as a joint MOD-MFAT initiative.
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Partners in the Blue Pacific
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9.
The Partners in the Blue Pacific initiative was launched in June 2022. It currently
comprises New Zealand, Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, s6(a)
US re-engagement in the Pacific will bring with it
increased presence, resources, and attention across a wide range of issues where collective
action will be essential to make progress (e.g. climate change, IUU fishing, and economic
prosperity).
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TAB THREE: BACKGROUND BRIEFS
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Defence Engagement with Solomon Islands
Solomon Islands does not have a military force,
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2.
The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI, 2001 - 2013) is an
important part of the NZDF’s history in the region and relationship with Solomon Islands. The
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NZDF contributed over 1,500 personnel over the course of the deployment.
3.
Defence engagement with Solomon Islands has
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a focus on maritime
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surveillance, ship visits and patrols, humanitarian assistance-related activities, and activities that
support ongoing peace and stability. These activities signal New Zealand’s intent to support
stability and prosperity in the region,
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Defence has a regular presence in Solomon Islands through one seconded NZDF Officer
who is the Surveillance, Planning and Liaison Officer (SPLO), situated within the Regional
Fisheries Surveillance Centre (RFSC) at the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) in Honiara.
5.
New Zealand has opportunities to engage with Solomon Islands officials through other
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security forums, including:
a. MFAT led: The Pacific Islands Forum (Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, other ministers
for specific thematic meetings)
b. Defence (Navy) led: South West Pacific Heads of Maritime Forces Meeting
c. Police led: Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police
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d. MFAT/MPI led: Forum Fisheries Agency
e. Customs/MFAT led: Oceania Customs Organisation
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Second World War legacy
6.
NZDF supports regular operations led by the Australian Defence Force to remove
unexploded ordnances from the Second World War (the Australian-led operation is named “OP
Render Safe”). We are committed to regularly conducting this activity in the South Pacific while
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the need persists.
7.
This activity last took place over two weeks in October 2019, when the NZDF DEPLOYED
21 maritime and land experts in explosive ordnance disposal, to work alongside the ADF and
RSIPF in the New Georgia Islands in Western Province.
8.
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New Zealand Defence also participated in WWII commemorative events, such as the
75th Anniversary of the Guadalcanal Battle, one of the Second World War’s most significant
campaigns.
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HMNZS OTAGO took part in the official Guadalcanal 75th activities. While the NZDF role
in events was limited, we were involved in a number of ways, including the Air Force providing
SAR support during the engagement.
11.
The NZDF takes part in an annual commemoration on Mono Island to commemorate the
27th of October 1943, when New Zealand and American soldiers landed and recaptured the
island from Japanese Forces in WWII.
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Solomon Islands Deployment
Key points
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) currently has four personnel deployed as part of
the Australian-led Solomon Islands International Assistance Force (SIAF) embedded in the
Multinational Police Support Group. Fiji and Papa New Guinea also have Police and Military
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embedded into this force.
The mandate for the NZDF deployment expires in May 2023.
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Six NZ Police advisors are also in Solomon Islands under New Zealand’s International
Development Cooperation (IDC) funded, long term policing advisory support programme,
Solomon Islands Policing.
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Fol owing the November 2021 riots New Zealand’s Defence engagement with Solomon Islands
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has been led by the NZDF contribution to the Solomon Islands International Assistance Force
(SIAF).
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2.
In response to the rapid deterioration of the security situation in Solomon Islands’ capital
Honiara, on 29 November 2021, Cabinet agreed in principle to a New Zealand deployment in
conjunction with Australia’s security support to Solomon Islands under those two countries’
Bilateral Security Treaty (BST).
3.
On 30 November 2021, the Solomon Islands Government formally requested assistance
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from New Zealand and on 1 December, Ministers with Powers to Act (MWPTA) agreed to a
deployment of up to 60 NZDF and 11 NZP personnel for up to 30 days. The Australian-led joint
regional presence became known as the Solomon Islands International Assistance Force (SIAF)
and was instrumental in helping to stabilise the security situation and prevent further violence
and destruction of property in Honiara.
4.
On 23 December, the deployment period for up to five NZDF personnel was extended to
31 March 2022; and then again extended in March 2022 until no later than 31 May 2022.
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5.
More recently, on 23 May 2022 MWPTA agreed to extend the deployment to no later
than 31 May 2023.
6.
The security situation in Solomon Islands has remained stable since early December,
underpinned by significant support from the SIAF.
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8.
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New Zealand’s Maritime Security Strategy
The Maritime Security Strategy was published in December 2020 by the Ministry of
Transport/Te Manatū Waka, the lead agency for maritime security policy in New Zealand.
Increasing pressure on our maritime security has demanded a new vision and approach for
the maritime security sector, and the Strategy ensures we have a sector that is able to
continue to secure our marine economic, cultural and environmental interests for future
generations.
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The Maritime Security Strategy is not intended to depict the full range of Defence Force
activities across the maritime domain, but rather provides a New Zealand-wide perspective
across the sector, of which Defence is only one of a number of contributing agencies.
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Defence was actively involved in the strategy development and governance. Other agencies
involved include Transport (lead), Customs, MPI, NZDF, MFAT, Police and Maritime New
Zealand.
The purpose of the Strategy is to drive the development of a more efficient and effective
maritime security sector that achieves the following:
o Maritime domain awareness
o
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Effective engagement with domestic and international partners to support the system of
international rules and norms
o Prevention of threats by seeking opportunities to mitigate threats early
o Responsive with the right mix of interventions
The Strategy recognises the need for New Zealand’s maritime security arrangements to
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evolve, and improves the sector’s ability to support collective policy development, investment
advice, analysis, and assessment of risks and opportunities.
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Forum Fisheries Agency
Key messages
The New Zealand Defence Force has a regular presence in the Solomon Islands through
one seconded NZDF Officer who is the Surveillance, Planning and Liaison Officer (SPLO),
situated within the Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre (RFSC) at the Forum Fisheries
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Agency (FFA) in Honiara.
New Zealand also engages with the FFA through the Quadrilateral Defence Coordination
Group (“Pacific Quads”), who coordinate assets (ships, planes) to support FFA
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maritime surveillance operations. This forum enables New Zealand (and other like-minded
partners) to showcase what it can offer Pacific Island countries. New Zealand is
represented at a senior level.
New Zealand regularly contributes air and surface assets to annual FFA-led maritime
surveillance operations. These aim to deter illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing
across the region, with participation from the 17 FFA member countries across their
combined 200-mile EEZ.
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FFA is a long standing and trusted partner for New Zealand.
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Background
The Pacific Island Forum Fisheries Agency is an intergovernmental agency established in
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1979 to facilitate regional cooperation and coordination on fisheries policies between its
member states in order to achieve conservation and optimum utilisation of living marine
resources for the benefit of the Pacific region.
FFA is an advisory body providing expertise, technical assistance and other support to its
members who make sovereign decisions about their tuna resources and participate in
regional decision making on tuna management through agencies such as the Western and
Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC).
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Based in Honiara, Solomon Islands, FFA's 17 Pacific Island members are Australia, Cook
Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New
Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga,
Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
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The FFA has approximately 80 staff at the regional FFA headquarters who support their
national contact points in departments of foreign affairs and fisheries in each member
jurisdiction. FFA focuses its work on:
Fisheries management – providing policy and legal frameworks for the
sustainable management of tuna.
Fisheries development – developing the capacity of members to sustainably
harvest, process and market tuna to create livelihoods.
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Fisheries operations – supporting monitoring, control and surveillance of fisheries
as well as treaty administration, information technology and vessel registration
and monitoring.
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Corporate services - supporting the organisation's work through administration,
human resources, budgeting and other corporate functions.
New Zealand has been a member of FFA since its inception in 1979. New Zealand has a
unique role in the FFA membership in terms of our triple coastal state, distant water fleet,
and donor status. New Zealand provides core funding to FFA at NZD 3.6 million per annum
and project funding of over NZD 4.8 million per annum focused on reducing illegal,
unregulated and unreported fishing in the Pacific, improving management of the South
Pacific longline fishery, and increasing economic returns to FFA members from their tuna
fisheries.
Information
International Branch, Ministry of Defence
Strategic Commitments and Engagements Branch, New Zealand Defence Force
July 2022
Official
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Policing support in Solomon Islands
Key messages
New Zealand Police (NZP) has a long-standing presence in Solomon Islands, with officers
being based in-country since the beginning of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon
Islands (RAMSI) in 2003.
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Aotearoa New Zealand currently funds the Solomon Islands Policing Support Programme
(SIPSP), which is implemented by NZP and will run until at least mid-2024. SIPSP is highly
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valued by the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) and Royal Solomon Islands Police Force
(RSIPF), and is a cornerstone of our support for peace and stability in Solomon Islands.
SIPSP is complimentary but distinct from the ongoing NZDF deployment to the Australian-
led Solomon Islands International Assistance Force (SIAF).
The SIPSP programme is focused on crime prevention and community-orientated policing
approaches. NZP is uniquely positioned to support RSIPF with these approaches s6
(a
)
Information
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Background
Official
Since July 2017, Aotearoa New Zealand has funded, under Official Development Assistance
(ODA)1, the Solomon Islands Policing Support Programme (SIPSP), implemented by
New Zealand Police (NZP). SIPSP followed Aotearoa New Zealand’s policing contribution to the
the
Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) over 2003-2017.
9.
The overarching goal of the SIPSP is the “Reduction in crime, victimisation and social
harm” within Solomon Islands. NZP work in partnership with the Royal Solomon Islands Police
Force (RSIPF) on crime prevention and community policing. NZP are considered regional
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leaders in community policing and the programme is highly valued by the Solomon Islands
Government (SIG) and RSIPF. s6(a)
There are currently six SIPSP advisors in-country.
10.
The ongoing NZDF deployment to the regional Solomon Islands International Assistance
Force (SIAF) is distinct from but complementary to the SIPSP. As the SIAF deployment is
operational, it cannot be funded through ODA. NZDF and NZP coordinate closely to ensure that
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1 ODA rules set out strict parameters for police and security activities that are eligible; at a very broad level, advisory and capability
building support is elig ble while operational activities are not.
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their activities with RSIPF are not duplicative or counterproductive, and are consistent with
regional frameworks.
Solomon Islands’ security sector
s6(a)
11.
Australia has a wide-ranging and flexible arrangement for security support to Solomon
Islands, with well-established cooperation across both policing and defence. There are
approximately s6( Australian Federal Police Programe Advisors in-country and Australia has
recently implemented a new phase of its policing support.
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12.
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13.
s
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a)
Information
Pacific Melanesia and Micronesia Division
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
August 2022
Official
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MFAT Country Paper – Solomon Islands
Summary
Aotearoa New Zealand’s relationship with Solomon Islands is distinctive, underpinned by over
a century of engagement. Solomon Islands is our partner in one of our largest bilateral
International Development Cooperation programmes. We are committed to being a valued, 1982
valuable, and values-based partner as Solomon Islands faces current and long-term political,
economic, social, and cultural challenges and inequalities.
Historical and current context: overview
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2.
Solomon Islands gained independence from Britain on 7 July 1978.
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3.
Solomon Islands is currently facing some of the most profound challenges in recent years
as a result of recent crises: the November 2021 civil unrest, global COVID-19 pandemic, and
Solomon Islands’ own ongoing national COVID-19 outbreak, compounded by the current global
economic downturn and inflation. New Zealand has expressed public concern over the Solomon
Islands Government's recent decision to sign a Framework Agreement on Security Cooperation
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with China.
Development programme
4.
Solomon Islands is our partner in one of New Zealand’s largest bilateral International
Development Cooperation (IDC) programmes. The total core allocation for the current triennium
is NZD 86.52 million. Our development programme focuses on building state capability for
Official
Solomon Islands to deliver to all its people, strengthening social and economic resilience, and
enabling sustainable management of natural resources.
the
Defence and security
5.
Australia has maintained the lead for security assistance (closely followed by New
Zealand) since prior to the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI, 2003-
2017). When RAMSI concluded in 2017, Solomon Islands and Australia signed a Bilateral
Security Treaty (BST).
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6.
New Zealand has a long-standing security partnership with Solomon Islands. The current
programme in our policing advisory partnership, operating since 2017, has successfully
delivered capability building across RSIPF to implement the Solomon Islands Crime Prevention
Strategy and contributed to promoting good governance and the realisation of human rights.
7.
On 24 November 2021, protests
s6(a)
escalated into civil
unrest and rioting.
s6(a)
. Solomon Islands requested
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a Pacific security response, led by Australia under the BST. New Zealand personnel joined
Australia, Papua New Guinea and Fiji to coordinate under the Solomon Islands International
Assistance Force (SIAF). Following the arrival of SIAF, calm was rapidly restored.
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Trade and economic
8.
New Zealand’s trading relationship with Solomon Islands is modest. The main
commodities we import from Solomon Islands include wood and wood products and coconut oil
(NZD 17 million). Our top exports to Solomon Islands are mainly sugars, sugar confectionary,
meat, dairy products, iron and steel (NZD 40 million). Solomon Islands is heavily dependent on
foreign investment and development assistance.
9.
Solomon Islands’ GDP contracted by 4.5% in 2020 and 0.5% in 2021 (ADB figures). The
economic cost of the November 2021 unrest has been estimated by the Central Bank of
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Solomon Islands (CBSI) at SBD 800 million (approximately NZD 154m). CBSI has projected the
economy to decline by -7.3% in 2022, anticipated to be one of the largest declines in GDP of
any Asia-Pacific economy in 2022.
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10.
Solomon Islands is a party to the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations
(PACER Plus). Additionally, labour mobility is of high political interest. Prior to COVID-19, New
Zealand’s RSE Scheme peaked at around 900 workers per year.
COVID-19 outbreak
11.
Solomon Islands first detected possible community transmission of COVID-19 on 16
January 2022. As of 19 July, Solomon Islands has reported 21,544 confirmed cases and 153
deaths. However, it is expected that actual numbers outstrip those confirmed as the rapid spread
of COVID-19 has exceeded the testing capability of health authorities.
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12.
Only 21% of the eligible population was fully vaccinated at the time of the first outbreak.
Solomon Islands has experienced waves of both the Delta (January-February) and Omicron
(April-May) variants. Approximately 45% of the eligible adult population are now fully vaccinated,
and COVID-19 has spread to all provinces in Solomon Islands.
13.
Solomon Islands communities have been severely impacted by COVID-19. The health
Official
system has come under serious strain, and livelihoods, including food security, have been
severely impacted.
14.
Aotearoa New Zealand has provided significant support for pandemic preparedness and
the
response to Solomon Islands prior to the detection of community transmission. This has included
NZD 3 million in budget support for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, NZD 2 million
of funding to support the vaccination roll out, an x-ray machine, rehabilitation of a small isolation
ward, emergency PPE, COVID-19 testing equipment, and rain jackets and lifejackets for the
provincial vaccination roll out. New Zealand also donated 28,800 doses of the AstraZeneca
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vaccine via COVAX in June 2021, and 100,800 doses of the Johnson&Johnson/Jannsen in
March 2022.
15.
Once COVID-19 arrived in Solomon Islands in January 2022, Aotearoa New Zealand
responded swiftly with the provision of PPE, RATs, vaccines and humanitarian supplies for the
most vulnerable. The High Commission in Honiara has used NZD 250,000 to support the
expansion of storage facilities for PPE in Honiara and the delivery of emergency food aid in
Honiara in response to short term food shortages caused by lockdowns. New Zealand also
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delivered over 1 million masks and other PPE, and 140,000 RATs, on NZDF flights in February
and April 2022. These were aimed at supporting the COVID response across the whole of
Solomon Islands and the safe reopening of schools.
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Key facts
Geography / Demographics
LAND AREA
27,556 sq. km, spread over 922 islands located 3,500km north
west of Wellington. Nine provinces: Guadalcanal, Malaita,
Western, Isabel, Choiseul, Makira, Central, Rennell and
Bellona and Temotu
POPULATION
687,000 (World Bank estimate)
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CAPITAL CITY
Honiara
LANGUAGE
English (official), Solomon Islands Pijin, plus around 80 local
languages
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Political
POLITICAL SYSTEM
Unicameral Westminster-style parliamentary democracy.
50 single member constituencies elected on a first-past-
the-post system. The MPs then elect the Prime Minister.
LAST ELECTION
3 April 2019
NEXT ELECTION DUE
Expected in 2023
HEAD OF
Prime Minister Manasseh
Sogavare
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STATE/GOVERNMENT
Economic
GDP
USD $1.6 billion (2020 est.)
GDP PER CAPITA
USD $2,328 (2020 est.)
Official
ANNUAL BUDGET
SBD 4.5 billion (2022)
MAIN EXPORTS
Logs (66%), fish (12%), palm oil and kernel (8.5%),
coconut oil and copra (1.9%)
the
PRINCIPAL EXPORT
China (64.7%), Italy (9.8%), Netherlands (4.2%),
DESTINATIONS
Switzerland (3.0%)
Pacific Melanesia and Micronesia Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
under
New Zealand High Commission in Solomon Islands
July 2022
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Biography: Australia Head of Delegation Pat Conroy, Minister for International
Development and the Pacific
Pat Conroy also holds the portfolio of Minister for Defence Industry
and has represented the Lake Macquarie region in Federal
Parliament since 2013. Conroy was previously Shadow Minister
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for International Development and the Pacific, and Shadow
Minister Assisting for the Climate Change, Defence, and
Government Accountability portfolios.
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During the
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election campaign, Conroy outlined his expectation that Australia’s
ODA budget allocations would eventually reach 0.5 percent of
Gross National Income. Minister Mahuta met Conroy on the side
lines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
(CHOGM) in Rwanda and Conroy was also at the Pacific Islands Forum in Suva.
Background
Australia has extensive and enduring involvement in Solomon Islands’ security sector dating
back to ‘the Tensions’ (late 1990s-early 2000s) and the Australian-led Regional Assistance
Mission in Solomon Islands (RAMSI), 2003-17.
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2.
s6(a)
3. Last November, Australia deployed a multiagency force under Royal Solomon Islands
Official
Police Force (RSIPF) command as part of the Solomons International Assistance Force (SIAF)
in response to civil unrest in Honiara. SIAF’s quick deployment was enabled by the 2017
Bilateral Security Treaty (BST), which also allowed third countries like Aotearoa New Zealand
the
and Fiji to deploy military personnel.
4. In addition to SIAF, Australia’s security support is focussed on maritime security,
including combatting illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, unexploded ordinance
(UXO) disposal, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), infrastructure (including
provincial border outpost strengthening) and telecommunications, police capacity building and
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training. Australia has supplied two Guardian-class patrol boats and six aluminium long boats to
the RSIPF.
5. Australia’s estimated Official Development Assistance (ODA) spend in the Solomons for
2022-23 is AUD$161m and Australia is Solomon Islands’ largest donor. Australia’s ODA support
is centred on health security (including Covid-19 vaccines), stability and economic recovery.
Australia Division
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
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Additional Talking Points – Australia
Note Australia’s role as New Zealand’s only formal ally and most important defence
relationship and security partner. Australia is an indispensable partner for New Zealand and
our impact in the Pacific in particular depends on us working closely together across the full
range of Pacific needs, not least defence and security.
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I enjoyed meeting Minsiter Marles at the Shangri-la Dialogue.
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Note that a 2+2 Ministerial meeting between Foreign Affairs and Defence was agreed at the
recent Australia New Zealand Leaders Meeting in the build up to next years 40th anniversary
of Closer Econominc Relatoins and the 80th anniversary of the opening of diplomatic
missions in each other’s countries.
We look forward to continued cooperation with Australia in the Pacific. Like Australia, we are
prioritising defence contributions aimed at supporting the stability and security of our Indo-
Pacific region (with an emphasis on the Pacific).
Thank for support with Australia as part of the Solomons International Assistance Force
(SIAF) in response to civil unrest in Honiara. Note that we are keen to coordinate closely
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with Australia to continue to support the Solomons to meet their security needs.
Defence Industry
Taking opportunities to demonstrate a shared commitment to growing Trans-Tasman
industry collaboration and to build resilience in the regional supply chain is something I
strongly support and encourage. Official
The Australian Defence market represents a significant opportunity for Aotearoa businesses.
Under Closer Economic Relations (CER) and the Australia and New Zealand Government
Procurement Agreement, New Zealand businesses qualify as ‘local’ in the provision of
the
support to the Australian Defence Force through the Australian Industry Capability
programme.
Awareness of this, while improving, needs to be constantly reinforced. I look forward to
working with you raising awareness of the opportunities for Australian and New Zealand
businesses in our respective Defence markets.
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I am meeting the Managing Director of Rheinmetall Defence Australia, Gary Stewart, in
Wellington next week.
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. We welcome these long-term partnerships.
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Biography: Japan Head of Delegation State Minister ONIKI Makoto
Oniki (born in 1972) is a ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) member
of the House of Representatives serving in his fourth term. He was
appointed State Minister of Defence in October 2021, upon the
establishment of the Kishida Cabinet.
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He was first elected to the Diet in 2012 and has held the Cabinet-level
position of Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Environment (2015-2016).
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He is from the city of Fukuoka (sister city with Auckland). Prior to
becoming a member of parliament, he served as a member of Fukuoka
prefectural assembly for ten years. He played rugby in high school and
visited New Zealand in 2011 for the Rugby World Cup.
Biography: General YAMAZAKI Koji
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Yamazaki (born in 1961) was appointed Chief of Staff, Joint Staff in
April 2019.
He joined the Ground Self-Defence Force in 1983 after graduating from
the National Defence Academy.
Prior to assuming the current role, he held positions such as Vice Chief
of Staff, Joint Staff (2015-16), Commanding General, Northern Army
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(2016-17) and Chief of Staff, Ground Self-Defence Force (2017-19).
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Biography: Vice Admiral SAITO Akira
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Saito (born in 1966) was appointed Vice-Chief of Staff, Maritime
Self-Defence Force in December 2021. He joined the Maritime Self-
Defence Force (MSDF) in 1989 after graduating the National
Defence Academy.
Prior to assuming the current role, he held positions such as
Principal of the MSDF Officer Candidate School, Director General
of Operations and Plans Department of the Maritime Staff Office
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Escort Force (2020-21). He studied at the US Naval War College
(completing the Naval Command College Diploma) in 2008.
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Additional Talking Points - Japan
Acknowledge the strength of the defence relationship between New Zealand and Japan,
particularly in the broader context of 2022 marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic
relations.
We are pleased that HMNZS AOTEAROA and our Chief of Navy is planned to be
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participating in the 70th Anniversary International Fleet Review in November.
New Zealand is committed to working closely with likeminded partners to support peace and
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security in the wider Indo-Pacific region.
Point out our support for Japan’s role
s6(a)
in the region, and
acknowledge the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (known as QUAD) made up of Japan,
US, Australia and India.
Acknowledge the JMSDF’s Indo-Pacific Deployment 2022 (IPD22) to realise a ‘free and
open Indo-Pacific’. We welcome the JDSF’s participation in these commemorations, and
we would welcome a future ship visit to New Zealand.
We encourage all our partners in the Pacific to focus on supporting long-term resilience
Information
outcomes in the Pacific, in line with Pacific priorities and with a high degree of Pacific
ownership.
s6(a)
New Zealand is committed to progressing opportunities for tangible defence cooperation with
Japan in the Pacific.
Official
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Biography: US Head of Delegation Wendy Sherman, US Deputy Secretary of State
[Handling note: an additional meeting brief is provided under tab two].
Wendy Sherman is deputy to Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Prior
to joining Biden’s administration she
was director of the Center for Public
Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School. Sherman held senior
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positions in both the Clinton and Obama Administrations. Under
President Obama she led the US negotiating team for the Iran nuclear
deal, and under President Clinton she was responsible for coordinating
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policy on North Korea. Sherman has been closely involved in the
Russia/Ukraine crisis
s6(a)
She most recently met with both Prime Minister Ardern and yourself
on her visit to Wellington
s6(a)
.
Note: Sherman’s father was a marine during World War
Two. He fought and was wounded at Guadalcanal.
Key messages
s9(2)(g)(i)
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Biography: Caroline Kennedy, Ambassador to Australia
Caroline Kennedy is President Biden’s Ambassador to Australia. From
2013 - 2017 she was US Ambassador to Japan. Prior to her time in Japan,
Official
Kennedy worked on education reform efforts in New York, creating public-
private partnerships to promote arts education, school libraries, and
performing arts spaces. An attorney and author, Kennedy has published
the
multiple books on law, civics and poetry. She a graduate of Harvard
University and Columbia Law School and is Honorary President of the John
F. Kennedy Library Foundation.
Note: Kennedy’s father, President John F.
Kennedy, took part in the Solomon Islands campaign as a patrol boat
captain in World War Two.
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Key messages
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New Zealand’s Involvement in Solomon Islands During WWII
New Zealand troops from all three services supported the US against Japan in Solomon Islands.
On 7 December 1941 Japan attacked both American and British territories in Asia and the
Pacific. The US had provided materiel support for the British effort since 1940; it now became a
full participant in the war.
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The immediate impact of the Japanese attacks was sobering. Japanese troops landed in the
Philippines and Malaya, and Japanese carrier-borne aircraft crippled the US battle fleet at Pearl
Harbour, Hawaii. The Japanese swept down the Malay peninsula to capture Singapore on 15
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February 1942. Darwin, on Australia’s northern coast, was bombed four days later and Japanese
forces moved as far south as Solomon Islands from their pre-war holdings just north of the
equator. The Japanese also invaded Burma and attacked Ceylon (Sri Lanka), both British
territories.
Bolstering the Defences
These events shocked New Zealanders, who found themselves directly threatened for the first
time. An unprecedented mobilisation began. By mid-January 1942, 43,000 men of the Territorial
Force were on duty. Urgent action followed to throw up defence works at vulnerable points. An
infantry brigade was sent to Fiji as forward defence, reinforcing another brigade deployed there
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in 1940.
Guadalcanal
The US South Pacific Command launched a counter-offensive in August 1942. Forces that
landed on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands were soon embroiled in a desperate struggle.
After the Japanese were finally defeated there, the Americans drove north through the Solomons
until late 1943, when the focus shifted to the central Pacific.
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New Zealand’s Role
New Zealand supported this counter-offensive. Its military forces were placed at the disposal of
the
the South Pacific Command. It provided a base for organisation and preparation, a place of
recuperation and recovery for American troops, and food and other supplies. Local industry was
developed to meet American needs.
Prisoners of War
Japanese prisoners of war were brought to New Zealand from September 1942, and 800 were
under
held in a camp at Featherston. On 25 February 1943, 31 were killed instantly and 17 died later
from bullet wounds when they made a suicidal charge on guards, one of whom was killed (the
only New Zealand serviceman to die from enemy action on New Zealand soil in two world wars).
Because of this incident, more Japanese died at New Zealand hands than vice versa during the
war.
Air and Naval Forces
New Zealand also provided forces from all three armed services for the Solomons campaign,
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where they served under American command. The Royal New Zealand Air Force made a major
contribution. In all, 20 squadrons served in the Solomons, and there were 8,000 airmen deployed
there
in
1945.
The
Royal
New
Zealand
Navy
sent
the
cruisers Achilles and Leander successively to Solomon Islands waters. Both were damaged by
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enemy action and had to be withdrawn for repair. Four minesweepers were deployed in January
1943, and 12 motor launches later.
Third Division
A 13,000 strong, two-brigade division, the 3rd NZ Division, under the command of Harold
Barrowclough, was deployed to New Caledonia in November 1942. It later moved forward into
the Solomons, where it took part in three landings. Manpower problems at home forced its
withdrawal and disbandment in 1944.
Pacific Commandos
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The landings at Guadalcanal (and New Georgia and elsewhere) were supported by the
deployment of the Pacific Commandos – a NZ trained and led force that included Fijians,
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Tongans, Solomon Islanders and personnel from what is now known as Papua New Guinea.
The Commandos were initially raised in Fiji as a guerrilla force to disrupt potential Japanese
landings. When the US took responsibility for the defence of Fiji from New Zealand, the New
Zealanders attached to the commandos remained in Fiji with a training and mentoring role.
The first group of 30 commandos deployed to Guadalcanal in December 1942. At that stage the
US forces held a beachhead 10 miles long and extending up to 2 miles inland. Patrols, supported
by Solomon Islanders, were conducted inland to ascertain the perimeter and disposition of
Japanese forces allowing US forces to extend their perimeter. The Commandos then undertook
training of Solomon Islanders on Malaita and at the beginning of February 1943 were deployed
on ‘mopping up' operations as the Japanese attempted to withdraw.
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In April 1943 Ist Commando deployed to Guadalcanal to support future operations. Its deployed
strength was 430 men – 44 New Zealanders, 156 Fijians, 28 Tongans, 200 Solomon Islands
and four Englishmen. It operated in four different languages – English, Fijian, Tongan and Pidgin
English. They initially continued patrolling on Guadalcanal and close-by islands looking for
Japanese stragglers or those who refused to surrender.
In July 1943 the Commandos were deployed to support the US landings on New Georgia. They
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were adept at moving through the jungle, coping with arduous patrolling, identifying Japanese
positions, guiding US forces into position for attacks, and dealing with snipers and isolated
positions. Based on the scouting of the Commandos, US forces were repeatedly able to commit
the
forces to critical positions. At times, they were engaged in heavy fighting.
Later that year, the Commandos supported the landing on Vella Lavella. By October 1943, half
the strength of the unit was suffering from malaria and needed to be withdrawn from the malarial
zone. They returned to Suva. Subsequent medical testing found that over three quarters of the
unit were no longer fit for service and it was disbanded in May 1944.
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The Commandos concept was highly successful and its contribution, particularly in the heavy
fighting on New Georgia, was well-regarded by US Forces. It was also important to the Pacific
partners as it allowed them to meaningfully contribute to combat operations. There is a memorial
at Henderson Airfield to the Kiwis, Fijians, Tongans and Solomon Islanders who died serving in
this force in the Solomons (Figure 2). 35 members of the Pacific Commandos received gallantry
awards or were Mentioned-in-Despatches while a number also received US awards.
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Figure 1: From August 1942, the Americans landed at Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands in the attempt to push back
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the Japanese. A year later members of the New Zealand 3rd Division began to assist them. Here New Zealand troops
from that division sort out equipment on the beach at Guadalcanal.
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Figure 2: A memorial to the Pacific Commandos is located at Henderson Airfield.
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Formal Message: 51st Pacific Islands Forum report – 28 July 2022
RĀPOPOTO – SUMMARY
With a palpable sense of relief and enthusiasm, Pacific Islands Forum Leaders embraced a
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policy programme of Pacific regionalism – and each other – following three years of largely
virtual diplomacy since they last met in Tuvalu in 2019. In doing so, Leaders delivered a high-
level political engagement to steer the strategic direction of the region in an increasingly complex
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global context. On the positive side of the ledger was Leaders largely recommitting to a unified
Forum through the Suva Agreement; the launch of the
2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific
Continent; a declaration that the Pacific is facing a Climate Emergency; and agreement and
direction on a range of other priority issues such as sea-level rise, nuclear, and fisheries issues.
The 2050 Strategy, in particular, will now serve as the rallying point for the region in both its
articulation of the region’s ambitions and priorities as well as serving as the basis for
engagements with external partners. Further, Leaders agreed on the importance of looking to
the region first on matters of security. The meeting saw a return, from next year, to regular
meetings, with Leaders agreeing to the Cook Islands, Tonga, and Solomon Islands taking up
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chairing responsibilities in 2023, 2024, and 2025 respectively.
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Leaders chose to leave the flag flying
throughout the week, and the door open, in anticipation of Kiribati returning to fold in due course.
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HOHENGA – ACTION
the
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RRO: to note Leaders’ agreement that the Cook Islands host of the 52nd Pacific Islands
Forum Leaders in 2023.
DEVPP/CCD: to note Leaders’ emphasis, based on advocacy from Prime Minister
Ardern, on the urgent requirement for decarbonisation of the energy sector towards
renewable energy.
All: for information
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PŪRONGO – REPORT
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1 The 51st Pacific Islands Forum came at a critical time for the region.
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the Pacific
has never been so strongly in the spotlight. In this context, and with the relevance to our security
and prosperity, New Zealand went into the Forum with three primary objectives:
Emphasise New Zealand’s support for a Member-led resolution that secures
Micronesian Members’ continued participation in the Forum;
Support the adoption of the
2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, as an
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ambitious, guiding document for our region; and
Facilitate and participate in discussions regarding the regional security context and
architecture.
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2 We report against each of these objectives below, as well as other priority policy
decisions and directions from Leaders stemming from their Retreat on issues such as climate
change (including energy resilience, sea-level rise, and Vanuatu’s efforts to seek an advisory
opinion from the International Court of Justice); nuclear issues; fisheries; and the Forum
Observer report on the New Caledonia referendum.
The Forum Chair sets the scene
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3 Pacific Islands Forum Chair, Fiji Prime Minister Bainimarama, opened the week s6(a),
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region’s response and answer to the challenges of the moment. Secretary General Puna
described it as our guiding document as we “look to secure our future in an evolving global
context”, while Bainimarama referred to it as our “north star”. The Strategy provided substance
to Fiji’s “festival of regionalism”, in the articulation of the region’s priorities and ambitions as well
as providing the basis for a strong policy response to the geostrategic environment. As noted by
many voices, through the Strategy the region could assert itself and chart its own course from a
position of strength. Furthermore, Leaders agreed that the Strategy laid the foundation for
engagement with (large) countries and other actors from outside the region, firmly establishing
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the expectation that partners should now engage with the region through the lens of the Strategy.
11 On the latter point, Leaders also reaffirmed the importance of utilising existing regional
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mechanisms, including the Pacific Islands Forum, for engagement with partners, “especially
where multiple Pacific Island countries are concerned.”
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12 Leaders highlighted that effective delivery would require a fit-for-purpose regional
architecture, with collective commitment from all regional agencies and relevant stakeholders.
Leaders broadened the mandate of the review of regional architecture to include political
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settings; institutional processes; governance mechanisms; and engagements and partnerships,
with officials tasked to report back to Leaders the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Meeting.
Regional security – “Pacific first”
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13
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Prime Minister
Ardern raised with Leaders the importance of non-militarisation and the need for us as a region
to reinforce the underlying principle that the region has the collective capacity and commitment
to meet our own security needs.
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14 In delivering these messages – and in particular the view that it is not in our collective
interests to see militarisation in the Pacific – Prime Minister Ardern made clear to other Leaders
her expectation that New Zealand would consult Forum Members on Pacific security matters,
including joint exercises, deployments, and policy developments
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a principled stance that prioritised Pacific stability.
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, Leaders
reaffirmed the “concept of regionalism and a family first approach to peace and security.”
Leaders also noted the upcoming work of officials to ensure the alignment of the Boe Declaration
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and 2050 Strategy, as part of efforts under the Strategy to ensure the regional architecture is fit-
for-purpose.
Leaders declare a climate emergency
15 Climate change did not receive the same degree of focus this year, in part due to the
work of Foreign Ministers, but also the need to focus on unity –
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Leaders
reconfirmed that climate change remains the single greatest existential threat facing the Blue
Pacific, declaring that the Pacific is “facing a Climate Emergency that threatens the livelihoods,
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security and wellbeing of its people and ecosystems, backed by the latest science and the daily
lived realities in Pacific communities.” Leaders committed to working together at COP27 and
welcomed the interest from Australia to host a United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change Conference of the Parties in partnership with the Pacific. Throughout these discussions,
Prime Minister Ardern raised the issue of the region’s reliance on fossil fuels for energy
production, with Leaders emphasising in the Communique the “the urgent requirement for
decarbonisation of the energy sector towards renewable energy.”
16 Leaders also recalled the
Declaration on Preserving Maritime Zones in the face of Climate
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Change-related Sea-level rise, re-emphasising the threat of climate change and sea-level rise
to the livelihood and well-being of the peoples of the Pacific. Leaders called on other states and
regions to “formal y support” the Declaration – language introduced in this Communique that, in
the circumstances, did not attract further comment (our thanks to LGL for support throughout
the drafting session).
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Other issues
18 Forum Foreign Ministers in their meeting covered a number of other issues, allowing
Leaders to confirm collective positions without further discussion:
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Nuclear issues: Leaders noted the report of the Secretary General on the Treaty of
Rarotonga; reiterated strong concerns regarding the proposed release of treated water
from Fukushima and the potential threat of nuclear contamination to the health and
security of the Blue Pacific, and reaffirmed the importance of ensuring “international
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consultation, international law, and independent and verifiable scientific assessments”.
While Leaders did not seek a report from the CROP Taskforce on Nuclear Legacy issues,
Leaders did note the progress of the work of the Taskforce, including arrangements for
a Preliminary Independent Review relating to Nuclear Contamination in the Pacific;
Economic returns from fisheries: under this standing agenda item, Leaders
encouraged Members to continue efforts to stay at the forefront of regional tuna fisheries
management, address IUU fishing, and to secure sustainable benefits from tuna
resources;
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Forum Observer report on New Caledonia referendum: Leaders welcomed the
Observer report and supported the Forum’s continued engagement with New Caledonia
through established Forum processes.
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Niue ocean initiative: Leaders commended and supported the Government of Niue
on its Ocean Conservation Credit initiative as a sustainable financing mechanism, noting
the ongoing challenges in accessing climate finance; and
Forum Chair: Leaders agreed to the Cook Islands as the host of the 52nd Pacific
Islands Forum Leaders in 2023, the Kingdom of Tonga in 2024, and Solomon Islands in
2025.
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TĀKUPU - COMMENT
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19 Given the uncertainties of the last 18 months, n
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this festival of regionalism can only be described
as a success. As seen in the meetings in Suva throughout June and July, officials, Ministers,
and now Leaders have relished the opportunity to connect in person, to understand more fully
respective views, and reconfirm our commitment to each other as a unified region.
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Forum Members are well aware of
the attention the region is receiving from larger powers and the strategic benefit of functioning
as a bloc. We anticipate – including through implementation of the
2050 Strategy – increasing
emphasis in coming months and years on the “centrality” of the Forum.
20 The launch of the
2050 Strategy itself was a lesson in regionalism, with the ceremony a
celebration of the culture of the Pacific as a source of strength. While the Strategy is the product
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of a consensus drafting process, coming after nearly three years since Leaders last met in a
world changed gives it a significance it might otherwise have missed. The Pacific now has a
rallying point and Leaders are returning to their countries with unity, strength, and a plan. We
also have the direction of Leaders to use the Strategy as the basis to ensure our regional
architecture – including security – is fit-for-purpose. Taken together, this gives us some
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confidence
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while officials begin the work of implementing the
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directions and decisions of Leaders.
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