The Solomon Islands Customs and Excise, Immigration, and Biosecurity Divisions have participated in a Maritime Border Fundamentals training under the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership.
This is to modernise border processes through a program supporting reform agendas of law enforcement agencies.
The training program, delivered by the Australian Border Force (ABF), is crucial to the disruption of unreported or undeclared importation of goods, and the detection of illicit or prohibited goods, which contributes to maintaining the integrity of Solomon Islands borders.
Importantly, it supports Solomon Islands’ budget position by improving revenue collection and reduces social impacts on health services through the disruption of harmful drugs into the country.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said both Australia and Solomon Islands face many of the same evolving risks and challenges that threaten border security.
“Australia is proud to be the primary border security partner in Solomon Islands and to be working alongside Solomon Islands law enforcement agencies to address these challenges.
“The capability the Australia Border Force continues to provide to Solomon Islands law enforcement agencies stands to deliver another safety layer to the border and is a strong demonstration of Australia’s commitment to our border security partnership with Solomon Islands.
“This work is vital in protecting the community from threats of all forms, including revenue evasion, narcotics, firearms or other prohibited or illicit goods.
“This is only the start, there is more to do, and we will be alongside you to help you do it.”
Mr Peter Hughes, Comptroller of Customs said the ABF training is the first of an ongoing program leveraging the skills of Customs officers to deliver on three key Customs priorities; addressing efficiencies through the modernising Customs procedures; security through strengthening the supply chain; and delivering prosperity to the people of Solomon Islands by working with industry to ensure they comply with obligations.
Mr Chris Akosawa, acting Director Immigration Division said, the work Immigration Division are doing alongside other law enforcement agencies and the ABF is critical to deliver the vision outlined within Immigration’s Strategic Plan 2024-2034.
“Bolstering organisational capacity requires collaboration and cooperation to improve knowledge and skills for officers,” Mr Akosawa said.
“This must be achieved through targeted training and skills development with likeminded partners who have proven capabilities in these areas. Partners who have an intricate understanding of current or emerging threats we face each day in the Pacific.
“This partnership allows my officers to better understand why they do their complex work every day and how the work they do contributes to the security of our border and our citizens.”
- AHC
