Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands and Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea engaged in a bilateral meeting at the Honiara Summit, where PM Marape announced a K5 million assistance for hosting the Pacific Islands Forum. The discussion reinforced their nations’ historical ties and included arrangements for future cooperation, including PM Manele’s participation in PNG’s independence celebrations and potential budget support from PNG.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands met with Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape during the Honiara Summit, where PM Marape announced a K5 million assistance package. This financial support is aimed at helping the Solomon Islands host the Pacific Islands Forum Summit scheduled for September. Their meeting served as a platform to strengthen the enduring relationship between the two nations.
PM Manele extended his condolences to PM Marape and the people of Papua New Guinea following the death of former Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan. He honored Chan’s impactful contributions to the development of PNG, demonstrating the deep respect shared between their nations. PM Manele remarked on the historical and cultural ties that bind the Solomon Islands and PNG beyond colonial boundaries.
Highlighting the strong relations, PM Manele accepted an invitation from PM Marape to attend PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Port Moresby on September 16. He assured PM Marape of Solomon Islands’ respect for PNG’s sovereignty and reiterated the country’s policy of non-interference regarding Bougainville’s political matters. He also expressed gratitude for PNG’s ongoing support.
In appreciation, PM Marape thanked PM Manele for committing to the anniversary celebration, emphasizing its significance for the people of PNG. He acknowledged Solomon Islands for hosting numerous PNG businesses in vital sectors like hospitality and agriculture. Additionally, he informed PM Manele about PNG’s advancements in cancer, heart, and kidney treatment facilities, urging Solomon Islands patients to utilize these services at local rates.
PM Marape further indicated that from 2026 to 2030, PNG would consider providing budgetary support to the Solomon Islands Government, similar to past assistance. PM Manele acknowledged this pledge, and both Prime Ministers agreed on the importance of regularizing cooperation talks between their countries, involving senior officials in annual meetings and biannual leaders’ engagements.
In conclusion, the meeting between Prime Ministers Manele and Marape not only underscored the collaborative spirit between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea but also initiated significant commitments for future cooperation. The K5 million assistance highlights PNG’s support for regional events, while the discussions on shared healthcare services and budget assistance promise further strengthening of their bilateral relationship. Regular dialogues are set to ensure continuity in cooperation.
Original Source: www.solomonstarnews.com
