The Vice President of Kiribati has praised the Western Provincial Government and its FOPA Satellite venue organizing committee for the hospitality and kind reception accorded to the Kiribati contingent during their short visit to Gizo, Solomon Islands.

The Kiribati Vice President had accompanied her country's performers to the Gizo FOPA Satellite venue on Monday.

Prior to returning to Honiara, the Vice President said the trip to Gizo by her country's cultural performers fulfilled one aspect of the group's wish to also meet with the extended Gilbertese family in the Western Province.

On Monday, the vice President visited Titiana village and paid tribute and respect to the graves of those who lost their lives during the Earthquake and Tsunami in 2007.

At Titiana Maniaba, she gave a brief talk to the community and expressed her gratitude. She also conveyed her government's greetings to the Kiribati communities in the Solomon Islands.

She also thank both the National government and Western Provincial government for the continued support to the naturalized Kiribati-Solomon Islanders.

Last night, the Premier of Western Province George Solingi Lilo hosted a private function for the Vice President, enabling her to also meet with other community leaders in the province.

The Kiribati contingent along with the Hawaii group performed at Gizo main Village and also at Saeragi yesterday.