10/09/2026
FORAU BACKS WANSOLWARA SHARED FUTURE | Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) Governor Dr Luke Forau has reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to the Wansolwara Collaboration, saying it will strengthen cooperation among Melanesian central banks. Speaking at the 2026 Central Bank Wansolwara Exchange Programme in Port Moresby on Tuesday, Forau said the partnership brings together the central banks of Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu. The programme is hosted by the Bank of Papua New Guinea from September 7 to 11 under the theme “Strongim Wantok: Shaping Our Shared Future.” Forau said the collaboration reflects the shared culture, values and identity of Melanesian countries. “The Wansolwara Collaboration reflects who we are as Melanesian people. It reflects the values of solidarity, trust and togetherness that have long defined our relationships,” he said. He said the three central banks face similar challenges, including improving financial inclusion, modernising payment systems, strengthening staff skills, dealing with climate risks and responding to cybersecurity threats. Forau said these challenges cannot be solved by one institution alone. He said the partnership allows the central banks to share knowledge, experiences and practical solutions. The Wansolwara platform supports policy discussions, technical cooperation, research and professional networking among the three central banks. Delegates are taking part in technical presentations, financial inclusion activities, cultural exchanges and staff learning sessions. Topics include economic outlooks, regulatory innovation, policy analysis, green finance and ways to strengthen financial system resilience. Forau also highlighted staff exchanges, technical secondments, joint workshops and leadership programmes as important ways to build skills and stronger institutions. “It is about building a stronger Melanesian network of central banks that can support each other, learn from each other, and grow together,” he said. He reaffirmed CBSI’s support for the initiative and said the collaboration would continue to strengthen relationships and support inclusive and resilient development across Melanesia.
Source/Photo credit @ CBSI Press Release/ Caption: Participants from the three Central Banks - bank of Solomon Islands, Bank of Vanuatu and of Papua New Guinea, attending the 2026 Central Bank Wansolwara Exchange Program in Port Morseby.