Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo has held bilateral talks with his New Zealand counterpart, John Key at the Office of the Prime Minister.

The brief bilateral meeting was to provide an overview for both Prime Ministers of the current engagements between the Solomon Islands and New Zealand.

Prime Minister Lilo during the meeting highlighted that Solomon Islands and New Zealand have always maintained cordial relations based on respect.

Mr Lilo said New Zealand have always been a firm supporter in the development aspirations of Solomon Islands.

Prime Minister Lilo also told his counterpart that the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has also been an important multilateral partnership for both Solomon Islands and New Zealand.

“Since RAMSI’s inception in 2003, New Zealand and Australia has made substantial commitment through financial support and assistance through RAMSI’s work programmes,” Mr Lilo said.

The Prime Minister also conveyed his appreciation to New Zealand assistance towards the Police Housing Project.

Mr Lilo also acknowledged the New Zealand as an important donor partner especially in strategic focal areas in economic development, human development and support towards safe and secure communities.

Prime Minister Lilo also highlighted the importance of New Zealand support in infrastructural development particularly for road and Munda International airport development; New Zealand support for education in Solomon Islands particularly on tertiary education and New Zealand scholarships for Solomon Islanders to study abroad.

Mr Lilo also accredited New Zealand funding through the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources under the Fisheries Sector Programme.

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key in response thanked Prime Minister Lilo for welcoming him and his delegation to the Solomon Islands.

Mr Key reiterated New Zealand’s commitment in aid and security in Solomon Islands and the region.

Mr Key said New Zealand is also committed in developing tourism, fisheries and the agricultural sector as these are important for economic development.

“New Zealand wants to make sure our aid is not only consumable but also has a positive impact in the long run,” Mr Key said. 

 

Source: Press Release, Government Communications Unit