Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua on Friday has saluted the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) for maintaining law and order while at the same time continue to rebuild the Solomon Islands Police Force (SIPF).

Speaking during a motion seeking Special Adjournment of Parliament on Friday, Dr Sikua particularly acknowledged RAMSI for the continued assistance to the Solomon Islands Police Force to maintain law and order in the country.

SIPF was significantly weakened during the ethnic crisis period when the force collapsed at the hands of warring ethnic militia groups which led onto the robbery of firearms from state armories in Honiara, Auki and Yandina.

Dr Sikua said the Government is committed to working closely with RAMSI in the spirit of genuine partnership to ensure that peace, security and stability in our country is sustained.

SIG and RAMSI have signed the Partnership framework in the second quarter of this year.

"This is a milestone achievement for both parties. The framework is simply a work plan that identifies activities that parties will work together in," the Prime Minister said.

"Our relationship with RAMSI continues to be strong and with the endorsement of our Partnership Framework, we will continue to work together so that we can achieve the overall goal of ensuring that Solomon Islands become a well governed, prosperous, and a good and happy Country for all of us - citizens, guests, and visitors alike to work and live in".

The Prime Minister thanked the Special Coordinator, his Executive Management Team, the PPF Commander, the Military Commander, and all Men and Women serving under RAMSI whether Military, Participating Police Force or Civilian for a job well done in assisting Solomon Islands to achieve our goals as a People and Country.

The Australian-led Regional Mission arrived in the country in July 2003 following invitation by the Solomon Islands Parliament to help restore law and order following five years of armed crisis and the collapse of law and order.

RAMSI's mandate was subsequently extended to also support the Machinery of Government as well as involvement in other important civic activities that directly benefited Solomon Islanders in rural areas.



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