Rt Hon Winston Peters
Deputy Prime Minister
Minister of Foreign Affairs
New Zealand and Australia have highlighted their strong commitment to Solomon Islands aviation and economic development
through the handover of the upgraded Seghe Airfield today.
“The upgrade of the Seghe Airfield runway in Western Province will enable flights to operate under all weather
conditions, making operations safer and more reliable, and enhancing connectivity for Solomon Islands’ provinces,” New
Zealand Deputy Minister Winston Peters says, during a visit to Solomons.
“We are delighted to have worked with Australia on this project and to hand the airfield back to the people of Solomon
Islands so that it can contribute to the country’s economic resilience.
“As well as boosting local jobs, the upgrade will support the growth of the tourism industry, expand economic
opportunities, and improve access to essential services and more equitable development across the provinces,” Mr Peters
says.
The project, worth almost $55 million, is co-funded by the Governments of New Zealand, Australia and Solomon Islands,
and implemented by Downer and AECOM.
“Australia is listening and responding to the priorities of the Solomon Islands Government, including by contributing to
economic growth, job creation and infrastructure development in the provinces,” Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong
says.
“We are proud to have worked with the New Zealand and Solomon Islands Governments to upgrade Seghe airfield as part of a
broader programme of airfield upgrades.
“The upgrades will bring economic benefits to the area by allowing more tourists to visit Western Province,” says Ms
Wong.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele officially opened the Seghe Airfield today, expressing his gratitude to
all partners for their hard work and dedication to the project.