The discovery of Solomon Islands by the great Spanish navigator, Alvaro de Mendana in 1568 marks "the first crucial point of contact" between Solomon Islands and Europe.

Newly appointed Spanish Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Antonio Cosano made the comment when presenting his credentials to the Solomon Islands government last week.

Ambassador Cosano observed that Mendana's exploration on the shores of the small Pacific nation provided the first European contact with the people of Solomon Islands.

"This is an event that has created a special historical tie, written in the pages of our common histories."

Ambassador Cosano said that in the modern age, Spain is delighted to further forge special relations with Solomon Islands through membership and common activities of various International Organisations such as the United Nations and the European Union.