Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa has met with Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele in Honiara.
The opportunities and challenges faced by the Solomon Islands was a focus of discussion, as Prime Minister Manele’s new Government prepares for the launch of their 100 Days Programme. The importance of solidarity within the Blue Pacific Continent was also considered, as well as the work that the Secretariat is doing to deliver the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Secretary General Waqa said “on my first official visit as Secretary General I am honoured to be here in the Solomon Islands. I congratulate Prime Minister Manele on his election and know he will be a dedicated leader for his country and a regional champion.
One of my key priorities as Secretary General is to continue to strengthen our solidarity as a Pacific family. We look forward to working with Prime Minister Manele to build our one Blue Pacific Continent and improve the lives of all Pacific people.”
Secretary General Waqa also met with Peter Agovaka, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade and affirmed the ongoing support of the Forum Secretariat.
The Solomon Islands is due to assume the Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum in 2025, and will host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting next year.
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat team is in Honiara for consultations with Government and stakeholders on key policies and initiatives, and to hear how PIFS can strengthen engagement to ensure the Solomon Islands benefits from the Secretariats work.
This covers the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and priorities of the Solomon Islands such as inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, alleviating poverty and ensuring environmental management.
The Solomon Islands is the 11th country in a programme of national missions to foster stronger ties, and understanding of regional unity and how the Pacific Islands Forum delivers on its mandate.
