A Solomon Islands Government (SIG) technical delegation has completed a week-long fact-finding mission to Papua New Guinea (PNG) aimed at gaining valuable insights into the management and development of the country’s mineral resources sector.
The delegation visited Port Moresby from 20 to 26 September 2026 to examine PNG’s experience in gold refining, mineral processing, downstream value addition, and the institutional frameworks that support the sector.
Led by Permanent Secretary for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Dr Chris Vehe, the delegation included senior officials from the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE), the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MoFT), as well as advisors and former senior government officials. Solomon Islands High Commissioner to PNG, William Soaki, also joined the team and assisted in coordinating key engagements.
During the visit, the delegation met with major industry and government stakeholders, including the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), Bank of Papua New Guinea, Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited, Italpreziosi South Pacific Limited, and the Mineral Resources Development Company.
The discussions focused on resource ownership and management, gold sector development, mineral processing, and approaches to maximizing economic returns from natural resources. The delegation also explored how PNG has established partnerships between government institutions, financial bodies, state-owned enterprises, and private operators to support mineral sector growth.
The visit comes as Solomon Islands advances reforms aimed at strengthening the governance of its own mineral resources sector. A proposed Mineral Resources Bill, expected to be tabled in Parliament soon, is anticipated to provide a stronger legislative framework for responsible and sustainable mineral development.
Officials say the mission offered valuable lessons that could help inform future policy, legislation, and institutional arrangements as Solomon Islands works toward developing a minerals sector that is environmentally responsible, economically beneficial, and sustainable.
The Solomon Islands Government expressed gratitude to the Government of Papua New Guinea and participating organizations for sharing their expertise and experiences. Both countries are expected to continue cooperation as Solomon Islands moves forward with efforts to unlock the potential of its mineral resources while ensuring long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Source: Solomon Islands Government / High Commission of Solomon Islands in Papua New Guinea.
