Prime Minister Danny Philip prayed that the Spirit of New Zealand may stand and that those who have lost their loved ones may have a new spirit to rebuild.
This was his prayer during a memorial service held at the St Barnabas Cathedral yesterday to remember the victims of the earthquake that struck Christchurch on February 22.
Christchurch was struck by an earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale on February 22 which resulted in the loss of many lives, properties and buildings.
“In my prayer I pray that the spirit of New Zealand stands and may they have new spirit to rebuild and also never to forget those who have gone go in peace,” he told the Solomon Star in an interview.
Prime Minister Philip said those people who are left behind must stand up together with the Pacific countries whenever disaster strikes and we must look to God for alternative help.
He said as one of the scholarship recipients in 1980s in Victoria University and now a government leader his heart went out for the victims devastated by the Christchurch.
He said we share the same sympathy with New Zealand communities in the country because of the strong bilateral relationship and is a member of the Pacific Forum.
“I think many of Solomon Islanders would like to come to share on the memorial service but I’m sure their hearts, spirit and support is with us.
“I’m sure the New Zealand communities in the country are happy with the support and the solidarity the Government and the people of Solomon Islands have with them,” he said.
Governor General Sir Frank Kabui and Lady Kabui and Government ministers also attended the memorial service.
Among them were New Zealand participating police force officers and soldiers serving in the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands and members of the diplomatic corps.
By Charles Kadamana
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