PORT VILA, October 24: The Ministries of Justice of Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands (SI) have taken a significant step towards enhanced bilateral relations by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) yesterday. This agreement establishes a cooperation program between the SI Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs and the Vanuatu Ministry of Justice and Community Services (MoJCS).

The signing ceremony took place at the Chiefs’ Nakamal premises, following a consultation held earlier at The Melanesian Hotel conference room in Port Vila. According to Vanuatu’s MoJCS, this initiative aligns with an agreement made by the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) 5 to 10 years ago, aimed at fostering exchanges in various sectors, including sports and culture. Some sectors have already participated in these exchanges.

Discussions surrounding the Justice cooperation began earlier this year, focusing on a Justice Twinning Programme that will facilitate the exchange of officers and resources between the two nations. This program aims to share expertise across various domains, including judicial practices, legal administration, land reform, and correctional services.

Minister Clezy Rore of the Solomon Islands expressed gratitude to the Vanuatu Government for this collaboration, highlighting the potential benefits for both countries. “We are very happy that you accepted this, moving forward between our two countries to share ways to advance our Ministries of Justice for our people,” he stated.

Minister Rore also acknowledged the support from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which has been instrumental in making this initiative possible. He indicated that this partnership could expand to include other Pacific nations, such as Papua New Guinea and Fiji.

Minister John Amos of Vanuatu described the signing as a historic moment, marking the first collaboration between the two Ministries of Justice on such an initiative. He noted the longstanding relationship between the two nations, mentioning their cooperative efforts in various fields, including past peacekeeping missions.

“This partnership lays the groundwork for Justice-to-Justice cooperation in policy development, professional training, and legal system strengthening,” he explained. Minister Amos emphasized the importance of working together to ensure a prosperous future for Melanesia.

As part of the visit, the SI delegation is also scheduled to sign an agreement with the Pacific Islands Legal Information Institute (PacLII) and engage with Solomon Islands law students, further enhancing legal collaboration in the region.