Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele paid a courtesy call on Papua New Guinea’s Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae at Government House Thursday, a visit aimed at strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two Melanesian nations.
Prime Minister Manele was accompanied by Solomon Islands’ former Governor-General Sir Frank Kabui and former Prime Minister Rick Houenipwela. The two countries, which established diplomatic relations in 1978, share close geographical and cultural ties.
During the visit, Manele thanked PNG for its continued support and assistance, which includes providing education, promoting business and investment, and aiding in security and policing through training and border surveillance.
A significant number of PNG-owned businesses operate in the Solomon Islands, providing employment to an estimated 6,000 locals.
Prime Minister Manele and his delegation arrived in Port Moresby Thursday at the invitation of PNG Prime Minister James Marape.
