The Solomon Islands Police Force says it is making good progess in its efforts to prepare for its possible rearmament.
The Police Commissioner Frank Prendergast says phase one of the limited rearmament process is well underway and he says he is optimistic of getting the approval from government for phase two, the actual rearmament.
All arms were collected in 2003 when the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission arrived in the country to help end lawlessness.
Mr Prendergast says preparations for rearmament are important as RAMSI is up for review in 2017.
"This project is about improving the culture of the police force and having that conversation with the community. I am confident however that we will be in a position to rearm at some stage. And you need to think forward to the possibility of RAMSI finishing its mandate. What will happen then, if there is no armed police in the Solomon Islands?"
Solomon Islands Police public order management demonstration. Photo: RNZI Courtesy of SIG