The Solomon Islands government has launched its Electronic Passport and Border Control Management System a little over a year since it signed an agreement for its installation.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare (R) tries out the newly launched E-passport and Border Control and Management system. Looking on (L) is the Deputy Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga. Photo: Supplied/ Solomon Islands Government
According to a statement from the government the project is the first of its kind in the Pacific region and also the first successful public-private partnership commissioned by the government.
A Malaysian company installed the Border Gate E-Passport machines at Honiara International Airport.
Speaking at the launch Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said the E-passport technology should ease travel burdens and reduce waiting time and check in procedures.
Mr Sogavare said the use of E-passports would also improve border control and management and eventually allow for faster visa processing by larger countries such as New Zealand and Australia.