NZ Dispatches Naval Ship to Solomon Islands Ahead of Contentious Elections

Published on March 26, 2024

New Zealand will send its HMNZS Canterbury, with two helicopters and crew, to the Solomon Islands ahead of the small Pacific nations’ national elections next month. The ship left on March 26 and is part of a NZ$10.8 million (US$6.48 million) support programme for the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission announced in January. The personnel and equipment will help transport election officers and materials. Foreign Minister Winston Peters said the programme includes funding for the Electoral Commission’s preparation and management, as well as an independent observer mission. “This is an excellent opportunity for our personnel to work again with the Solomon Islands’ government and alongside Australian counterparts in support of regional peace and security,” Mr. Peters said....

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