The Solomon Islands prime minister has made a concerted pitch for new trade and investment opportunities, as Australia looks to strengthen its security relationships in the Pacific.

Jeremiah Manele says Australia and the Solomon Islands need to partner at a moment of opportunity as well as challenges.

"The global economy is shifting. New markets are emerging," Mr Manele told at a bilateral business summit in Brisbane on Tuesday.

"It is through partnerships with businesses that we will create jobs, build firms and generate prosperity," he said, appealing to Australia's private sector to invest in his archipelago.

The Solomon Islands is one of Australia's nearest neighbours, but one of the poorest nations on earth, with GDP per capita around a thirtieth of Australia.

Mr Manele is eager

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