The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with France following a high-level courtesy call by the Ambassador of the French Republic to the Pacific Community (SPC), Her Excellency Véronique Roger-Lacan, on Acting Prime Minister Hon. Frederick Kologeto.
Held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC), the dialogue explored a wide range of shared priorities in health, education, climate, regional security, and cultural heritage highlighting France’s enduring presence and support in the Pacific.
A central part of the discussions focused on the historic La Pérouse expedition, and a proposal to establish a La Pérouse Museum at Vanikoro, a culturally and historically significant site where the famed French explorer’s shipwrecks are located.
Both sides acknowledged the value of preserving this heritage site as a bridge of cultural diplomacy between France and Solomon Islands.
Ambassador Roger-Lacan expressed strong support for the museum project, noting that it holds importance not only for France but for the Pacific and the world.
She described it as a “shared memory of humanity” and welcomed the opportunity to partner with Solomon Islands to see the project realized.
Complementing the museum proposal, the Acting Prime Minister and Ambassador Roger-Lacan also exchanged views on the potential development of an airport at Vanikoro to improve access and unlock tourism and economic potential in the remote area.
The proposed infrastructure would help facilitate scientific research, educational exchange, and cultural tourism.
The dialogue also covered broader development cooperation, particularly in health systems strengthening, with both parties acknowledging the need for serious and targeted investment.
The Acting Prime Minister raised the idea of a separate Parliamentary bill focused on malaria and vector-borne diseases, and highlighted the Government’s openness to partnering with global health institutions such as The Global Fund.
Climate resilience, ocean governance, and education—including French language programs and scholarships—were also featured prominently.
France reaffirmed its commitment to joint programming through SPC and the EU-Pacific cooperation frameworks.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing mutual satisfaction and eagerness to build on the strong foundations of partnership.
Ambassador Roger-Lacan praised Solomon Islands’ leadership on regional issues and emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people and cultural ties.
The visit marks a new chapter in France–Solomon Islands relations, one grounded in shared values, historical connection, and forward-looking collaboration.
– OPMC
