Relations between the United States and what is now the Solomon Islands began in the late 19th century, when U.S. vessels began stopping at the islands. During World War II they became the site of intense battles between U.S. and Japanese forces, particularly on the island of Guadalcanal. Relations remained mostly informal until after the Solomon Islands gained their independence in 1978.
Modern Flag of The Solomon Islands
The United States recognized the Solomon Islands on July 7, 1978, when Senator John H. Glenn, as the President’s Personal Representative, delivered a letter to that effect from President Jimmy Carter to Prime Minister Peter Kauona Keniaraisoona Kenilorea. The Solomon Islands previously had been under British sovereignty.
Diplomatic relations were established on October 9, 1978, when Mary S. Olmsted presented her credentials as Ambassador to the Solomon Islands. Olmstead also was accredited to Papua New Guinea and was resident at Port Moresby.
The U.S. Consulate in Honiara was upgraded to Embassy status on July 4, 1988, with William Warren as Chargé d'Affaires ad interim.
The United States closed its Embassy at Honiara on July 30, 1993. Ambassador Robert William remained Ambassador to the Solomon Islands and was also accredited to Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, and was resident at Port Moresby.