Health is important for Solomon Islands' prominent leaders, says the Taiwanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, H.E. George Chan says.

During the handover of the fitness equipment to the National Parliament of Solomon Islands on Wednesday, Mr. Chan stressed on the importance of each one's health.

"The Members of Parliament are the nation's assets. Their health is of great importance to the national development of this great nation," said Mr. Chan.

He encouraged the Parliamentarians to do regular exercise using the fitness equipment "which will arouse public awareness on the significance of physical health".

"All the political leaders suffer from heavy workload everyday and the massage equipment can help them recover from the tiredness and relax themselves. This will result in helping them work more efficiently and provide better services to the country," said the Taiwanese Ambassador Chan.

Handover of the highly-valued equipment follows a successful 2008 Taiwan Trade Fair showcased in the Solomons from 23-25 June where a variety of high-tech products made in Taiwan were displayed during the exhibition.

The fitness equipment includes two massage chairs, two treadmills and one foot massage.

"These products have traveled a long way from Taiwan to Solomon Islands, symbolizing a token of friendship and a spirit of brotherhood between our two countries."

Speaker of Parliament, Sir Peter Kenilorea received the equipment on behalf of the Government.