OUTGOING Solomon islands Ambassador to Taiwan Beraki Jino has been awarded the Order of the Brilliant Star of Grand Cordon on Saturday by the Taiwanese government.
This was for his outstanding contributions to enhancing relations between Taiwan and Solomon islands.
Speaking at the special ceremony on Saturday night HE Timothy Yang, Taiwan's Minister of Foreign Affairs thanked Jino for his tireless efforts, relations between Solomon Islands and Taiwan.
"We have never been better since diplomatic ties were established in 1983.
"During your six year-year tenure, high level officials from both countries have made frequent visits, and bilateral trade co-operation and interaction has gone from strength to strength. Taiwan highly values and cherishes its relations with Solomon islands.
"Indeed your good country is one of Taiwan¡¯s most loyal friends, and it has stanchly supported us in the international arena over the years," the Foreign minister said.
He said a prime example of this was in August last year when Taiwan was badly hit by Typhoon Marakot.
"The National Parliament of the Solomon Islands immediately passed a resolution to extend its condolences to Taiwan and organized a fund-raising event," he said.
In response Jino said he was honoured to have been awarded with the Order of the Brilliant Star of Grand Cordon by the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan).
"I humbly and sincerely accept this important award and recognition.
"At the outset, I must say that I am not alone from the side of the Government I represent to pursue stronger relations and co-operations between Taiwan and Solomon Islands.
"It has been team efforts all along," he said.
Jino also recognize and salute his colleagues in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in Honiara, other colleagues in diplomatic missions abroad for their contribution, constant support and advice over the years.
Jino who will move to Brisbane for his new post said indeed the relations between Taiwan and Solomon Islands have grown stronger over the years.
"And I'm proud to have witnessed some of these developments during my tenure as Ambassador," he said.
Jino and his family will arrive in the country this week to sign his contract before heading for his new assignment.
By MOFFAT MAMU
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