New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Winston Peters, is set to visit the Solomon Islands today, arranging a meeting with its newly elected Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele. This represents Peters’ second trip and is a part of many high-level sessions that Manele has held since he assumed the position in May. The Solomon Islands has been a significant focal point in Pacific geopolitics ever since the nation shifted their alliance from Taiwan to China in 2019.
During his term, Manele has also met several international VIPs, including Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Washington’s Papua New Guinea-based ambassador, China’s special envoy to the Pacific, and Japan’s ambassador to the Pacific. Furthermore, Manele traveled to Australia to have a dialogue with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Tarcisius Kabutaulaka, an associate professor at the University of Hawai’i’s Center for Pacific Islands Studies, noted that this influx of visits isn’t unusual after the appointment of a new leader. However, part of it is due to the Solomon Islands becoming a key player in geopolitical competitions post their alliance switch.
Winston Peters has a busy schedule planned post his Solomon Islands visit, with stops planned at Nauru on Wednesday and Niue on Thursday. Peters’ mandate includes discussing regional issues and strategic challenges while aiming to strengthen New Zealand’s relationships in the Pacific.
The tour will also include bilateral meetings with President Adeang and foreign minister Aingimea in Nauru, along with a meeting with Premier Dalton Tagelagi in Niue. The latter part of the visit is in line with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s recent announcement of a significant $20 million investment in Niue and will include a groundbreaking ceremony for the energy investment.