PNG Commits K5 Million for Honiara PIF Summit Support

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands met with PNG PM James Marape at the Honiara Summit where Marape pledged K5 million to assist in hosting the Pacific Islands Forum. They discussed enhancing bilateral relations, respecting sovereignty, and regularizing cooperation talks. PM Manele affirmed participation in PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, while PM Marape outlined future healthcare access for Solomon Islands citizens and potential budgetary support.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands recently engaged in a productive bilateral meeting with Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape during the Honiara Summit. PM Marape announced a K5 million financial assistance package towards supporting the Solomon Islands in hosting the Pacific Islands Forum Summit in September this year.

During their discussions, both leaders highlighted the enduring relationship between their nations. PM Manele extended his condolences to PM Marape and the PNG populace for the loss of former Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan, acknowledging his contributions to PNG’s development.

Emphasizing their deep historical ties, PM Manele noted that these connections transcend colonial borders. He accepted PM Marape’s invitation to the PNG 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations scheduled for September 16, underscoring Solomon Islands’ commitment to respect PNG’s sovereignty while reaffirming a stance of non-interference regarding Bougainville’s political matters.

PM Marape expressed gratitude for PM Manele’s confirmed participation in the independence celebrations, conveying the significance of his attendance to the PNG people. Furthermore, he acknowledged the presence of over 50 PNG companies operating in the Solomon Islands and highlighted future healthcare initiatives allowing Solomon Islands patients to access critical medical facilities in PNG.

Additionally, PM Marape stated that PNG is considering offering budgetary support to the Solomon Islands government for the period of 2026 to 2030, similar to past arrangements. Both prime ministers mandated that senior officials from both countries would work towards these objectives. They also agreed to regularize cooperation discussions through annual meetings among officials and biennial leaders’ summits.

This meeting between Prime Ministers Manele and Marape not only strengthened the relationship between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea but also set the stage for future collaboration in various sectors, including healthcare and budgetary support. The commitment to enhance diplomatic engagement through regular meetings reflects a mutual understanding and respect for sovereignty.

Original Source: www.solomonstarnews.com