The National Government has pledged more support towards hosting the Miss South Pacific Pageant competition in Honiara in December.

Speaking at a crowning event of the winner of the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant on Saturday, Minister for Culture and Tourism Samuel Manetoali said the Government is proud to be part of the event and is encouraged to witness young female Solomon Islanders displaying extra-ordinary talents and abilities.

“It is a great honor and pride to be here tonight to share some encouragement to our 2013 Miss Solomon Islands Beauty pageants,” said Mr Manetoali.

Mr Manetoali said this year’s Miss Solomon Islands crowning is extra-ordinary as it will also lead up to the Miss South Pacific Pageant 2013 to be held here in December.

“On this same note, I would like to reiterate the NCRA Governments commitment in supporting the upcoming Miss South Pacific Pageant.

“I am pleased to pledge our commitment to supporting this event through the relevant Government Ministries,” Mr Manetoali said.

The Minister also said hosting the Miss South Pacific Pageant here in December shows the increasing confidence and willingness by our regional neighbours for Solomon Islands to take centre stage in hosting such events, following the successful hosting of the 11th Festival of Pacific Arts and the Royal visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge last year.

“Hosting the Festival of Pacific Arts and the Royal Visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge has already promoted our country, which is an ingredient for our tourism industry,” he added.

He said events like the Miss Solomon Islands and Miss South Pacific are crucial not only in promoting our young and beauty talents, but they provide our people with the opportunity to show case and demonstrate to the region and the world what we can offer as a nation.

Minister Manetoali also encouraged all Solomon Islanders to rally support behind Miss Solomon Islands because she will be flying our flag high in December.

He also encouraged the reigning Ms Tema Wickham who was crowned Miss Solomon Islands last Saturday to work hard to ensure the Miss South Pacific Pageant crown does not leave our shores in December.

Press Release: GCU