Prime Ministers Jeremiah Manele and James Marape met at the Honiara Summit, where PNG pledged K5 million to aid the Solomon Islands in hosting the Pacific Islands Forum Summit. The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral relations, healthcare collaborations, and historical ties, with future meetings planned to sustain diplomatic engagement.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands held a productive bilateral meeting with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape at the Honiara Summit. During this meeting, PM Marape announced a K5 million assistance to support the Solomon Islands in hosting the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Summit slated for September.
The meeting served as a significant opportunity to enhance the longstanding relationship between Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. PM Manele expressed his condolences to PM Marape and the people of Papua New Guinea for the recent passing of former Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan, acknowledging his considerable contributions to the nation’s development.
Highlighting the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, PM Manele affirmed these connections extend beyond colonial borders. He accepted PM Marape’s invitation to attend Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, reinforcing the commitment of the Solomon Islands to respect PNG’s sovereignty and remain non-interfering regarding Bougainville’s political matters.
In appreciation of Papua New Guinea’s enduring support, PM Manele acknowledged the presence of over 50 PNG companies operating in the Solomon Islands across various sectors. PM Marape also informed PM Manele about new health facilities, including cancer, heart, and kidney care, available to referral patients from the Solomon Islands at the same costs as PNG citizens.
Additionally, PM Marape indicated that budget support for the Solomon Islands would be considered from 2026 to 2030, as has been done in previous years. Officials from both nations are tasked with pursuing these important matters further.
The two leaders concluded their discussions by agreeing to regularize cooperation talks, with meetings held annually between senior officials and every two years between the leaders.
The meeting between Prime Ministers Manele and Marape highlighted the collaborative efforts and shared history between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. The announcement of K5 million assistance for the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Summit further solidified these ties. Both leaders expressed appreciation for each nation’s contributions and support, while also committing to regular discussions to deepen cooperation moving forward.
Original Source: www.solomonstarnews.com
