ADB establishes resident mission in Solomon Islands
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced the establishment of its Resident Mission in Solomon Islands, upgrading its Honiara-based country office that has been active since 2008.
The move comes following a request from the Government of Solomon Islands amid the country’s increasing development needs.
“For more than 50 years, ADB has been assisting Solomon Islands to achieve its development goals.
“The new office signifies a stepped-up and long-term commitment in ADB’s partnership with Solomon Islands.
“With the new resident mission, we will be in a stronger position to help Solomon Islands achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth by improving connectivity, strengthening human capital, and promoting reforms,” ADB Vice-President Scott Morris said.
“As the Minister of Finance and Treasury and Governor of the ADB Board, I welcome the establishment of a resident mission in Solomon Islands. It is representative of the natural progression of our long-standing partnership.
“We have seen the value that a growing local presence can bring, and believe a resident mission is crucial for enhancing the performance of ADB-financed projects, speeding up decision making processes, expanding ADB support for private sector development, and giving us more opportunities for regular dialogue on portfolio performance, policy reform, and overall strategies for growth and development,” Minister Manasseh Sogavare said.
The establishment of ADB’s Resident Mission comes at a time when ADB’s portfolio is growing rapidly.
As of 31 December 2024, ADB’s active sovereign portfolio in the country comprised 16 projects totaling $414 million, up from 11 projects totaling $215 million as of 31 December 2023.
The planned commitments during 2025–2028 include 13 projects and programs valued at more than $213 million.
ADB-supported projects focus on transport, particularly roads, and the upgrade of the international port in Honiara and smaller provincial wharves.
It also covers investments to support health, renewable energy, urban water supply and sanitation, solid waste management, and economic reforms through policy-based operations.
Solomon Islands has been working with ADB since 1973.
As of 31 December 2023, ADB has committed 126 public sector loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling $481 million to Solomon Islands.
ADB’s current sovereign portfolio in Solomon Islands includes 6 loans and 9 grants worth $202.8 million.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific.
Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.
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ADB statement