Refurbished Immigration Office Boosts Border Security
Media release
The strengthening of Solomon Islands’ sovereign border security capabilities and improvements to national economic prosperity were on display at the opening of the newly refurbished Immigration Services Office funded by Australia.
At a formal handover ceremony led by Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, the Hon. Trevor Manemahaga thanked Australia, for protecting Solomon Islanders and strengthening national development.
“As close neighbours, Australia is helping us to deliver change, protect our borders and provide improved services to our people,” Minister Manemahaga said.
“Across roads, ports, energy and the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme, Australia is helping us improve the lives of our people and reduce risks at our borders.”
The Immigration Office refurbishment builds on Australia’s SBD18 million package of support to Solomon Islands border security to deliver a new Border Management System, integrating with Australian and Papua New Guinean systems, to ensure Solomon Islands derives the benefits of immigration-related revenue streams.
“Just like this refurbished office space, the trilateral cooperation between Solomon Islands, Australia and Papua New Guinea boosts our shared collective border security, and demonstrates our commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ security priorities and national economic prosperity,” Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton said.
The refurbishment of the Immigration Office is part of a larger infrastructure program supported by Australia to renovate and upgrade existing public infrastructure using local contractors and local suppliers.
“Local Solomon Islands workers have breathed new life into this building, making it a bright, welcoming space for Immigration staff and the general public needing immigration services,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
“And the best thing is that it has been delivered by a 100 percent local workforce, creating 29 skilled construction jobs, and upskilling workers on quality building fit-outs.”
