PRIME Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has highlighted his Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT’s) vision to transform Solomon Islands into a prosperous nation by diversifying the economy,
PM Manele was speaking to formally open the 13th Australia-Solomon Islands Business Forum on Tuesday, 3rdSeptember at the Heritage Park Hotel.
Delivering the keynote address, the PM highlighted that his government is deeply committed to accomplishing its vision for inclusive sustainable economic growth.
“This vision is underpinned by our dedication to reduce poverty, improving living standards and creating an environment where businesses can thrive.
“The private sector is at the heart of this transformation. Your efforts in driving innovation, creating jobs and generating revenue are critical for our nation’s future.
“I see this forum as an essential platform for dialogue. We can align our shared goals and pave a way forward together.
“My government is actively implementing a range of initiatives to support this vision.
“First and foremost, we are investing heavily into infrastructure with the support of our partners, including the Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program (SIIP).
“This program is very vital for us to improve our ports, roads and telecommunications, creating vital human activity and facilitating easy access to both local and international markets.
“We are also focusing on specific sectors with high growth potential in Agriculture, enhancement activity in traditional crops such as cocoa and copra.
“It is vital to the livelihood of our rural population,” PM Manele said.
PM Manele said in Fisheries, GNUT is leveraging to boost exports to drive economic growth.
“Our goal is to ensure that these sectors not only meet the domestic needs, but also contribute significantly to our export economy.
“Our government is supporting seaweed farming as it has the potential to generate income for many rural families and communities in our country,” he added.
The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) as well as the Australia- Pacific Islands Business Council have acknowledged PM’s Manele’s commitment to the Australia-Solomon Islands Business Forum.
The forum was hosted in Honiara from September 2 to 4.
The event was poised to be a landmark event for business leaders from Australia and the Pacific.
The theme for this year, “Business Leading Employment and Export Growth” underscored the forum’s focus on fostering economic development and collaboration.
The business environment in Solomon Islands is currently in a state of significant transformation, particularly with a new government in place under the Prime Ministership of Manele.
The event was organized by the Australia – Pacific Islands Business Council and SICCI.
By RAYMOND HULANGA
Solomon Star, Honiara
