Media Release
FA98 - 1 August 2003
Solomon Islands Visit
I leave Solomon Islands today greatly encouraged by the positive reception given to the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission.
In meetings with New Zealand’s Foreign Minister and myself, Prime Minister Kemakeza, Cabinet, Opposition members and civilian leaders have all expressed their strong support for the Mission’s work. Solomon Islanders are determined that this initiative to restore law and order, stability and hope should succeed.
Much work remains but considerable progress has been made in the Mission’s short time in Honiara. There are clear signs that life has already begun to change for the better.
During my visit, I reinforced the message that regardless of the duration of the police/military deployment, Australia’s broad commitment to assist Solomon Islands will be sustained and long-term. We are determined to help free the people from intimidation by militants and rule by the gun.
My announcement yesterday of increased aid of up to $25 million to Australia’s existing law and justice strengthening program, including the completion of the Central Prison in Honiara in the next few months, underlines our determination to bolster these critical areas.
A $6 million boost to the Community Peace and Restoration Fund will enable more Solomon Islanders affected by the conflict, particularly youth and women, to return to a normal life.
The $1 million contribution to the National Peace Council will help it continue to promote reconciliation and support those villages that have handed in weapons.
Our assistance is across the board. An Australian adviser has started work in the Ministry of Finance and additional financial advisers are expected to join the Ministry shortly. Their task will be to stabilise the country’s economy and financial position.
I would like to pay tribute to the deployment from the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Defence Force and the Australian Protective Services. With their colleagues from New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, they have already made a significant difference in a very short time.
Finally, I made it clear in all my meetings that we must not become carried away with the early success of the mission. It will be a difficult process over the medium and long term.
A heavy burden of responsibility falls on the people of Solomon Islands and their Government because they own the process and must show the resolve to ensure that it delivers tangible and sustainable results.
Media enquiries: Chris Kenny (Ministerial) (02) 6277 7500 - Julie McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261 1555