Outgoing Solomon Islands High Commissioner to the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency William McDonald Soaki paid a farewell courtesy call on Hon. Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji on Monday 22 February 2021.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Bainimarama expressed the Fiji Government’s appreciation to High Commissioner Soaki for his commitment to enhancing the bilateral relations between the two Pacific nations in areas of shared interests and priorities.
On regional solidarity, Prime Minister Bainimarama said that the strength of the Blue Pacific is in collective efforts and aspirations to progressively rebuild and recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.
In reaffirming Fiji’s commitment to advancing engagements with the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Vuvale (family), Prime Minister Bainimarama said working together in unity at all levels is paramount in advancing regional prosperity.
Prime Minister Bainimarama also acknowledged the cooperation from the Solomon Islands Government at this challenging time and for the invaluable support and hospitality, it has rendered to Fijian nationals in the Solomon Islands.
Prime Minister Bainimarama conveyed the best wishes of the Fiji Government and the Fijian people to High Commissioner Soaki in his future endeavors.
In response, High Commissioner Soaki said that he is indeed honored to contribute towards the robust and friendly relationship between the two countries. He particularly thanked the Fiji government for its kind support in facilitating the approval of repatriation flights for stranded Solomon Islands nationals and the waiver granted to tertiary students for their visa extensions.
Mr Soaki conveys his deep gratitude to the Fijian people for the warm hospitality and friendship. He is confident that the relationship will continue to thrive in the future.
High Commissioner Soaki will be returning to Honiara soon for a short break before taking up another Head of Mission posting.
High Commissioner Soaki began his tenure in Fiji on December 2018. Prior to that, he was the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Source: GCU