PNG Pledges K5 Million Support During Honiara Summit Meeting
Prime Ministers Jeremiah Manele and James Marape met at the Honiara Summit, where PNG pledged K5 million to support the Pacific Islands Forum. They discussed strengthening their longstanding relationship, expressed condolences for a late leader, and emphasized mutual respect and future collaboration, including health initiatives and budget support from 2026 to 2030.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele recently held a successful bilateral meeting with Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape during the Honiara Summit. At this meeting, PM Marape announced a K5 million contribution to assist the Solomon Islands in hosting the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Summit. This partnership highlights a commitment to strengthen the longstanding relationship between their nations.
During the discussions, PM Manele expressed his condolences to PM Marape following the recent passing of former PNG Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan. He voiced his deep respect for Chan’s legacy and the significant contributions he made to PNG’s development.
PM Manele emphasized the historical and cultural ties between Solomon Islands and PNG, noting these bonds began long before colonial borders were drawn. He accepted PM Marape’s invitation to attend PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Port Moresby on 16 September, reinforcing their nations’ camaraderie.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ respect for PNG’s sovereignty and its non-interference stance regarding Bougainville’s political developments. He also acknowledged PNG’s ongoing support over the years, demonstrating the mutual respect between the two countries.
In response, PM Marape expressed gratitude for PM Manele’s participation in the upcoming Independence Anniversary celebrations, stating it means significant support for the people of PNG. He noted the presence of over 50 PNG companies in Solomon Islands across various sectors, highlighting their positive bilateral economic impacts.
PM Marape further informed PM Manele about the establishment of advanced cancer, heart, and kidney facilities in PNG. He encouraged Solomon Islands patients to utilize these services at the same cost as PNG citizens, showcasing PNG’s commitment to regional health collaboration.
Additionally, PM Marape indicated that PNG would explore providing budget support to the Solomon Islands government from 2026-2030, following historical assistance dynamics. Both leaders recognized the need for senior officials from both governments to follow through on these discussions.
In summary, the bilateral meeting between Prime Ministers Manele and Marape underscores the robust relationship between Solomon Islands and PNG. With PNG’s commitment of K5 million for the Honiara Summit, support for healthcare, and discussions on budget assistance, the partnership is poised for greater collaboration. Future cooperation talks will be formalized, establishing a regular dialogue aimed at strengthening bilateral ties further.
Original Source: www.solomonstarnews.com
