Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, Hon. Peter Kenilorea, represented Solomon Islands at the Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue held in Suva, Fiji from 15-17 June 2026.
He joined regional leaders as a panel member in a high-level discussion on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of peace and security in the Pacific region.
Speaking during the session titled ‘Leaders on Challenges and Opportunities’, Minister Kenilorea emphasized the importance of Pacific-led solutions to emerging security challenges and highlighted the strong relationship between sustainable development, good governance and long-term peace and stability.
Minister Kenilorea noted that Pacific Island countries face increasingly complex challenges, including climate change, transnational crime, economic vulnerability, geopolitical competition, social inequalities, youth unemployment and the growing expectations of citizens for improved public services and economic opportunities.
“Peace and security cannot be viewed in isolation from development. Security and development are two sides of the same coin,” Minister Kenilorea said.
“For Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific region, strengthening institutions, creating economic opportunities, investing in our people and building resilient communities are essential foundations for lasting peace and stability.”
Minister Kenilorea also stressed the need for trust among PIF Members in any pursuit of a focused pacific led and owned regional security arrangement.
He also highlighted the need for solidarity of the PIF group.
Minister Kenilorea highlighted the Solomon Islands Government’s commitment to advancing inclusive development through strategic investments in infrastructure, free education, health services and economic transformation.
He stressed that free education is a flagship policy of the GREAT Coalition government.
Minister Kenilorea said Solomon Islands’ experience with the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) as a successful example of Pacific-led collective security.
He noted that RAMSI, the first mission deployed under the Pacific Islands Forum’s Biketawa Declaration, demonstrated the effectiveness of regional cooperation in responding to security challenges.
Established at the request of the Solomon Islands Government in July 2003, the Australian-funded, 15-member Pacific mission restored law, order and stability after years of civil unrest.
The Pacific family has a unique opportunity to shape its own security future through cooperation, mutual respect and collective action.
“Our strength lies in working together to address the challenges that affect our people and our region,” Minister Kenilorea stated.
The Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue brought together government leaders, policymakers, development partners, security experts, civil society representatives, and regional organizations to discuss emerging security trends and opportunities for strengthening regional cooperation.
Minister Kenilorea welcomed the dialogue as an important platform for Pacific leaders to exchange perspectives, identify common priorities, and strengthen partnerships that support a peaceful, secure and prosperous Pacific region.
The Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination remains committed to working with regional and international partners to advance sustainable development and contribute to regional peace, stability, and resilience.
Ends///
– MNPDC
