Australia And China Gift Vehicle Fleets To Solomon Islands Ahead Of Pacifc Leaders' Summit

Thursday, 28 August 2025, 6:48 pm
Article: RNZ

Australia and China have both gifted multi-million-dollar vehicle fleets to the Solomon Islands just weeks before Honiara is set to host the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders' Meeting.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said he had received the first 22 vehicles from a 61-strong fleet donated by Australia to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) to support security operations for the summit.

Manele said that the support "reflects the spirit of solidarity, respect, and friendship" between Australia and the Solomon Islands.

The estimated cost of the entire fleet from Australia is approximately US$3.4 million.

In a separate statement on the same day, Manele announced receiving 27 sport utility vehicles (SUVs) from China to ferry delegates during the gahtering.

Manele said saii the vehicles are part of a 40-vehicle fleet jointly procured by China and Solomon Islands to provide transport for Forum Leaders and other VVIP delegates.

The estimated value of this fleet is US$1m.

The 54th PIF Leaders' Meting is schedule to take place from 8 to 12 Septmeber.

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