Mfat sees big improvements in safety of Solomon Islands

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Mfat) and Trade today issued an optimistic travel advisory for the Solomon Islands, where New Zealand and other Pacific nations have been working to restore law and order.

Despite the good news, Mfat did warn of the need for comprehensive medical and travel insurance, and urged New Zealanders travelling to the Solomons to give their details to this country's High Commission in Honiara.

"There has been significant improvements in law and order throughout Solomon Islands," Mfat said.

"The threat of criminal activity affecting visitors and expatriates is now considered to be minimal."

Despite that, personal security awareness should be maintained.

The statement pointed to the role of the Pacific Island Forum's Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (Ramsi) -- involving police, military and officials from forum nations including New Zealand.

With the Solomons police, Ramsi had succeeded in restoring law and order throughout the country following several years of ethnic conflict, corruption and lawlessness, Mfat said.

"Weapons related crime has virtually ceased. Law enforcement is now in place in major centres and provincial areas."

Visits throughout the country, including to the main tourist destinations, were usually trouble free.

Visitors and expatriates were not believed to be specific targets, but should maintain a level of personal security awareness and monitor developments that could affect their safety.

Outside Honiara emergency response capacity was limited. Medical services were limited and passenger ferry and flight services throughout the islands were routinely subject to change at short notice, Mfat said.

"To meet these contingencies, we recommend visitors obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance that includes provision for emergency medical evacuation."

- NZPA