The US Shiprider Agreement signed by the new-look Solomon Islands government has been subject to fiery criticism in Parliament. “This is settled policy for the Solomon Islands government, and it will be honoured with the same consistency we bring to all our friendships.” Status of Forces“Under that old agreement, United States forces present under authorised duties are exempt from Solomon Islands passport and visa requirement. “United States equipment, supplies, and government properties enter the country free of duties, taxes, and charges,” Sogavare said. “A certificate of a United States commander is sufficient proof that the conduct occurred in the course of official duty, subject only to review inside United States military chain of command.”