PM Wale and Australian High Commissioner HE Jeff Rouch during the courtesy visit
Prime Minister Wale meets Australian High Commissioner Roach
Honiara, Solomon Islands – Prime Minister Mathew Cooper Wale received a courtesy call from the Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Jeff Roach, a day after taking office on Saturday 16 March 2026.
High Commissioner Roach conveyed the congratulations from Prime Minister Albanese to Prime Minister Wale on his election as Solomon Islands’ new Prime Minister.
High Commissioner Roach briefed the Prime Minister on the scope of Australia’s comprehensive support to Solomon Islands across many sectors over several decades, highlighting the breadth, the depth, and the genuineness of Australia’s long-term and deep-seated relations with Solomon Islands.
He further stated that Australia was ready and willing to take the relationship forward, indicating their willingness to listen to Prime Minister Wale’s priorities, which they will consider seriously.
Prime Minister Wale acknowledged with appreciation Australia’s longstanding and unwavering support for the Solomon Islands over the years.
He highlighted that Australia is Solomon Islands’ largest donor and development partner of choice over several decades, covering all sectors, including support to our communities, the private sector, our SOEs, and non-government organisations, including our churches.
The Prime Minister welcomed Australia’s openness to listen to the priorities his government will bring to the table for a deeper and committed partnership and encouraged Australia to think big and think long-term to further grow and nurture the partnership going forward.
He indicated he looks forward to visiting Australia to meet with Prime Minister Albanese at an appropriate time soon to further discuss and cement the relations between our two countries.
Ends///