The Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency [H.E] William Soaki, paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Honourable Jeremiah Manele, in Honiara on Tuesday morning.
High Commissioner Soaki conveyed New Year greetings to Prime Minister Manele and expressed appreciation for his leadership.
He commended the Prime Minister for his continued commitment to advancing the strong partnership between Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
The High Commissioner provided an update on the flourishing relationship between the two countries, highlighting active cooperation in education—including scholarship awards—the judiciary, sports, the private sector and a new budget support programme by PNG for the Solomon Islands.
He noted the high level of diplomatic synergy currently enjoyed by both nations and the ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties in 2026.
He also briefed the Prime Minister on upcoming initiatives, including the inaugural Solomon Islands–Papua New Guinea Business Forum, to be held in Honiara this year, and the first bi-annual meeting between the two nations’ Foreign Ministers.
These events reflect the commitment to deepening trade, investment, and diplomatic engagement.
His Excellency also highlighted the security and police cooperation between our two countries.
Discussions included the Solomon Islands sharing its specialized expertise in unexploded ordnance (UXO) handling with Papua New Guinea, as well as other areas where PNG could contribute to strengthening Solomon Islands’ capacity including training of police officers.
Many of these opportunities are yet to be fully realized, reflecting the potential for a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and expertise.
Looking ahead to Solomon Islands’ 50th Independence Anniversary in 2028, Prime Minister Manele noted that the country hopes to learn from Papua New Guinea’s recent 50th Independence Anniversary as it prepares for its own milestone.
Prime Minister Manele thanked High Commissioner Soaki for his dedicated service in representing the country in Port Moresby.
He reaffirmed the strategic importance of maintaining a strong and vibrant relationship with Papua New Guinea and expressed satisfaction with progress across all shared sectors of interest.
– OPMC
