Solomon Islands’ growing partnership with the People’s Republic of China was reaffirmed by Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele highlighting major milestones in trade, health, infrastructure, and regional cooperation.
In his remarks at the Chinese New Year reception of the People’s Republic of China on Thursday evening, Prime Minister Manele extended warm Lunar New Year greetings to President Xi Jinping, the Government, and the people of China, wishing them prosperity in the Year of the Horse.
“Let the Year of the Horse bring new beginnings to all of us. And may it inspire all people to embrace strength, nurture connections and persevere in the New Year.”
Reflecting on six years of diplomatic relations, the Prime Minister said despite global challenges, 2025 marked a year of strengthened friendship and deeper trust.
He reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ recognition of the One China Principle, describing it as central to advancing the nation’s infrastructure, rural development, and broader socio-economic progress.
“Please allow me to reiterate again that the country’s recognition of the “One China Principle” in our six-year relationship is a step towards realizing the goal of advanced infrastructural development and rural, social and economic advancement.”
Prime Minister Manele acknowledged China’s support in hosting the 2025 Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, particularly the provision of vehicles that assisted with logistics.
He also highlighted China’s role as one of Solomon Islands’ largest trading partners, noting that the introduction of zero tariffs on all Solomon Islands products has boosted trade flows between the two nations.
With Solomon Islands expected to graduate from its Least Developed Country (LDC) status next year, the Prime Minister revealed that discussions are underway to establish a Free Trade Agreement with China to further expand economic opportunities.
In the health sector, he pointed to the successful handover and full operation of the China-Aid Comprehensive Medical Center Building.
The facility, equipped with advanced medical technology including the country’s only large-scale digital subtraction angiography machine, has significantly enhanced the capacity of local medical professionals and improved healthcare services nationwide.
The Prime Minister also cited progress in telecommunications, revealing that 141 towers have been constructed across the country, with more than 70 already connected to the national system.
He emphasized that improved connectivity is critical for a geographically dispersed nation like Solomon Islands.
Beyond infrastructure and trade, Prime Minister Manele highlighted expanding cooperation in health, education, rural development, and economic partnership, alongside growing people-to-people exchanges that continue to strengthen bilateral ties.
Drawing a symbolic parallel, he noted that 2026, the Year of the Horse, echoes 1978, the year Solomon Islands gained political independence.
“Let the Year of the Horse bring new beginnings to all of us. And may it inspire all people to embrace strength, nurture connections and persevere in the New Year.”
The Prime Minister expressed optimism for continued cooperation based on equality, mutual respect, and shared benefit, wishing all a prosperous Lunar New Year.
This evening’s Chinese New Year reception was hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Solomon Islands.
– OPMC
