Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is in the Solomon Islands this week for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), where leaders from across the region are gathering to discuss shared challenges.
The Solomon Islands has chosen to hold this year’s talks without outside partners such as the US, China, and the UK, instead focusing on Pacific voices and priorities. Despite some differences of opinion, Luxon said the main sessions have been marked by unity and cooperation.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele opened the forum by calling for Pacific nations to stand together in a changing world. He stressed that the Pacific should not be treated as a “battleground” by larger powers and urged leaders to stay true to “the Pacific way.” The theme of the meeting, “Iumi Tugeda,” means “We are together” in Solomon Islands Pijin.
Luxon said the exclusion of partners had not been a big focus in talks, though New Zealand generally prefers open discussion. He added that leaders agreed on the need for “Pacific solutions to Pacific challenges.” On Thursday, the leaders will travel to Munda for a private retreat, where the year’s most important decisions are expected to be made.
Luxon has also met with several leaders, including Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. Luxon presented Rabuka with a commemorative coin from the 1974 Commonwealth Games, where Rabuka had competed. The two discussed trade, crime prevention, and health issues.
During his visit, Luxon also launched a new 10-year education partnership with the Solomon Islands, worth $61 million. He was warmly welcomed by local students at a school in Honiara, who surprised him with a traditional “warrior welcome.”
Later this week, Luxon will also meet with Palau’s President, Surangel Whipps Jr., as Palau prepares to host the 2026 forum. New Zealand hopes to host the 2027 edition and will find out soon if it is successful.
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