Australia has committed $190 million (US$118 million) to strengthen the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and establish a new police training centre in Honiara, the nations announced.
Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Jeremiah Manele described the initiative as fostering “an enduring sovereign security capability” to reduce reliance on external partners.
The agreement includes expanding the RSIPF, with the ultimate goal of doubling its size to around 3,000 officers. Australia will also enhance its police presence and provide additional equipment to bolster security in the Pacific nation.
This comes amid increasing Chinese influence in the region following Beijing’s 2022 security pact with Solomon Islands, which included police training and donations of equipment.
Mihai Sora of the Lowy Institute noted the agreement marks a significant shift in Solomon Islands’ strategy, emphasizing it as “a major achievement for Australia” in maintaining its regional influence.