Solomon Islands National Election

I congratulate the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force for their work in delivering the first national election since the conclusion of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) in 2017.

The Australian Government is proud to have supported Solomon Islands during the election. Australian and New Zealand defence and other personnel worked side-by-side to support our Pacific neighbour to deliver a safe and peaceful election.

With the peaceful conduct of polling on 3 April, and voting results now announced, Australia looks forward to working with the incoming government when it is formed.

I thank the Commonwealth, Australian and other election observer teams who observed the process at the invitation of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission. I welcome the interim statement by Commonwealth Observer Chair, the Hon Sato Kilman Livtuvanu, that the results of the election should reflect the wishes of the people of the Solomon Islands. Australia's observers witnessed calm, peaceful and orderly voting and counting and were impressed with the preparations and professionalism of electoral officials and police.

The observations of the Australian team will be shared with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission to help inform its preparations for future elections.

Australia's assistance to Solomon Islands in support of its elections reflects our close bilateral relationship and unwavering commitment to supporting prosperity, security and stability in Solomon Islands.