Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka hands a gift to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Amon Murwira on his official visit to Honiara.
Solomon Islands and the Republic of Zimbabwe Establish Diplomatic Relations and Strengthen Engagement
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Amon Murwira on his official visit to Honiara, marking a historic and significant step in advancing engagement between the two countries.
In his meeting with his Zimbabwean counterpart, Minister Agovaka, reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to strengthening relations with Zimbabwe.
Both sides acknowledged their shared interests and common perspectives as developing nations, particularly within multilateral forums such as the United Nations. The discussions highlighted the importance of solidarity among developing countries and enhanced cooperation within the framework of South-South engagement.
During the meeting, Minister Agovaka reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ strong commitment to multilateralism and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. He underscored the importance of inclusive representation in global governance, particularly within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Minister Agovaka reiterated Solomon Islands support for comprehensive Security Council reform, including the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent membership categories to ensure improved geographical representation, especially for Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
He also acknowledged Zimbabwe as the endorsed candidate of the African States Group for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.
Minister Agovaka informed Minister Murwira that Solomon Islands will support Zimbabwe’s candidature in the upcoming UNSC elections scheduled for June 2026. The Solomon Islands Government expressed confidence that Zimbabwe’s tenure on the Council would advance the priorities of developing countries and strengthen multilateral cooperation.
In the spirit of reciprocity and equitable representation, Solomon Islands also sought Zimbabwe’s consideration for a reciprocal support arrangement for Solomon Islands’ bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2032–2033 term.
In supporting Zimbabwe’s candidature, Solomon Islands encouraged meaningful engagement within the Security Council to elevate SIDS priorities, including climate security, maritime security, women and development, sea-level rise, and conflict prevention.
The Foreign Ministers also signed the Joint Communique establishing diplomatic relations with the Republic of Zimbabwe, signifying the beginning of a new bilateral relationship. Both Ministers agreed on the importance of exploring practical avenues for bilateral cooperation, including forestry, climate change, health cooperation, and knowledge exchange between their respective foreign ministries and relevant government agencies.
The visit marks an important milestone in laying the foundation for stronger bilateral ties and future cooperation between Solomon Islands and Zimbabwe.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka during his meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Amon Murwira.