US, Solomon Islands Deepen Ties as Peace Corps Set to Return After 25 Years

The United States is strengthening its relationship with the Solomon Islands by reviving the Peace Corps program and expanding development assistance, signaling Washington’s continued focus on the strategically important Pacific region amid growing competition with China.

The U.S. State Department said Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau met Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale on Monday, where both sides discussed ways to boost bilateral cooperation, encourage investment, and deepen long-term partnerships. During the visit, Landau and Wale signed a letter of intent that paves the way for the Peace Corps to return to the Solomon Islands after more than 25 years.

Landau, who is also serving as acting director of the Peace Corps, announced an additional $6 million in U.S. funding to expand efforts to remove unexploded World War II ordnance across the islands. The Solomon Islands, home to the historic Battle of Guadalcanal between U.S. and Japanese forces, continues to face safety risks from wartime explosives.

According to the Peace Corps, more than 700 volunteers served in the Solomon Islands between 1971 and 2000, supporting education, healthcare, and community development projects before operations were suspended because of political instability.

The renewed U.S. engagement comes as Washington seeks to strengthen its presence in the Pacific, where the Solomon Islands has developed close ties with China. Beijing’s influence increased after the two countries signed a security agreement in 2022, raising strategic concerns in the United States and among regional allies.

The diplomatic outreach also follows Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s recent meeting with Solomon Islands officials after China conducted a missile test in the South Pacific using a nuclear-powered submarine. The launch drew criticism from several Pacific nations, including the Solomon Islands.

Prime Minister Wale acknowledged China as an important partner but criticized the missile test, saying it was “not something a friend does.” He also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening relations with Australia while continuing to engage with international partners to support the country’s development and regional security.