In a significant diplomatic development, Saudi Arabia and the Solomon Islands have formalized an agreement to exempt holders of diplomatic, private, and official passports from short-stay visa requirements. This landmark agreement was signed during a high-level meeting in Riyadh on Sunday, marking a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the two nations.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan hosted the Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele, along with the country’s Foreign Minister, Peter Shanel Agovaka. The discussions centered on reviewing and strengthening the existing relations between Saudi Arabia and the Solomon Islands, exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation across various sectors, including tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Prince Faisal expressed his appreciation for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, wishing for continued stability and prosperity for the Solomon Islands. In turn, Prime Minister Manele extended greetings to the Saudi leadership, conveying hopes for the Kingdom’s ongoing progress and growth.
The newly signed visa exemption agreement is expected to facilitate international travel for diplomatic personnel from both nations, streamlining their movements without the burden of visa applications. This agreement is anticipated to promote partnerships between airlines, notably between Saudi Arabian Airlines and Solomon Airlines, potentially increasing connectivity and travel options between the two countries. During their meeting, the Saudi Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Ambassador Saud Al-Sati, and the Saudi Ambassador to Australia, Sultan bin Khuzaim—who also serves as the non-resident ambassador to the Solomon Islands—were present, highlighting the importance of this diplomatic engagement.
In the context of broader travel initiatives, Saudi Arabia has recently eased restrictions for tourists from China and Pakistan, aiming to attract over five million visitors from China by 2030. These measures include improved language support at Saudi airports for Chinese nationals and simplified financial requirements for Pakistani visa applicants. The visa exemption agreement with the Solomon Islands follows similar recent policies, including the removal of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and special passports from Cyprus earlier this year. However, it is important to note that while the agreement eases travel for diplomats, regular citizens from both nations will still need to apply for visas to visit each other.
The discussions between Prince Faisal and Prime Minister Manele also encompassed a variety of issues of mutual interest, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to foster closer ties. As both countries continue to navigate their respective roles on the global stage, this agreement represents a step toward deeper collaboration and enhanced diplomatic engagement. As international travel continues to recover in the wake of the global pandemic, such agreements are pivotal in fostering stronger ties between nations and promoting cultural and economic exchanges that benefit both Saudi Arabia and the Solomon Islands.
