RAMSI: Second Anniversary

This weekend marks the second anniversary of Australia’s successful collaboration with our regional partners to provide a new beginning for the Solomon Islands.

Deployed at the request of the Solomon Islands and under the auspices of the Pacific Islands Forum, the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has restored law and order and rebuilt the government’s capacity to manage its finances and deliver essential services.

The men and women from eleven countries across the region who have been part of RAMSI have shown professionalism, enthusiasm and expertise, and they can be proud of the real improvements they have helped deliver over the past two years.

RAMSI support has assisted the Solomon Islands’ justice system to manage effectively and fairly a large number of serious criminal trials, including the trial and conviction of former militants.

With RAMSI assistance for improved revenue collection, the Solomon Islands Government also recorded a 40 percent increase in revenue in 2004, providing greater resources to fund basic services.

Working alongside Solomon Islanders, and with their overwhelming support, RAMSI has more generally helped to rebuild confidence in the Solomon Islands’ national institutions.

RAMSI is now focused on consolidating the substantial gains made to date. While we should celebrate the achievements of the past two years, we must also recognise there remains much work ahead.

Ongoing reform of the Solomon Islands’ institutions, economy and governance will need to be driven by the people and Government of the Solomon Islands with continuing support from RAMSI and its contributing nations.

Australia remains committed to supporting RAMSI until the task is completed.

Media inquiries : Ministerial 02 6277 7500, DFAT Media Liaison 02 6261 1555