Solomon Islands-Vanuatu-Samoa-Australia: Challenges facing Australia’s bilateral agreements reflect local politics
As of 13 March, issues remained in the finalisation of a policing agreement between Australia and the Solomon Islands. First announced in December 2024, the agreement totals $NZD206million and includes building a police training centre in Honiara. At a similar time, the Prime Minister of Vanuatu announced he would seek further concessions from Australia before ratifying a bilateral security deal. The deal covers disaster response, policing, cybersecurity, and border security, and was initially negotiated in 2022 but has not been ratified by either party. Newly elected Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat stated to the media that he sought a higher prioritisation of climate security and to increase travel mobility. Separately, on 22 March, Samoa and Australia announced the release of a joint development plan for 2024-2030.
Assessment: The challenges facing Australia’s attempt to formalise its position as the primary security provider to each country are likely a reflection of domestic politics within the states. China is likely adding some pressure to the Solomon Islands, but this is unlikely to be the main factor. Few points of difference remain and the agreement will almost certainly be concluded, a separate bilateral health agreement was also signed during this period worth $NZD162 million. Both the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu almost certainly seek to demonstrate their international influence to domestic audiences while maximising the benefits from all partners. PM Napat stated his country “treat[s] Australia the same as China.”
Sources: Prianka Srinivasan, “New Vanuatu PM Says He Will ‘Revisit’ 2022 Security Agreement with Australia,” The Guardian, March 13, 2025; Chrisnrita Aumanu-Leong and Stephen Dziedzic, “Solomon Islands PM Takes Aim at Trump's Climate Position, Says 'Differences' Remain with Australia over Policing,” ABC News, March 13, 2025; Vaelei Von Dincklage, “Australia and Samoa Sign Development Partnership,” Samoa Observer, March 22, 2025.
