Solomon Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, has officially opened the Solomon Islands Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office and other International organizations in Geneva, Switzerland.
The opening ceremony was attended by senior members of the diplomatic community in Geneva, Switzerland, Solomon Islands Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the European Union in Brussels, H.E Mr. Joseph Ma'ahanua and Solomon Islanders living and working in Geneva."Although small and merely symbolic, for the Government and people of Solomon Islands, this occasion is one of great significance. It manifests the desire to have our voice heard in the global arena," said Hon. Agovaka.
"In terms of trade, we believe that through this Mission we can strengthen our ability to achieve development-friendly outcomes from the Doha Round, address and strengthen our technical needs and to strengthen our capacity to negotiate individually and collectively," said Hon. Agovaka.
Hon. Agovaka says that the Solomon Islands Mission in Geneva will also enhance the governments work on human rights, "especially in building institutional strength in democratic institutions."
The official opening of the Solomon Islands Mission in Geneva represents the government's firm commitment in increasing its presence abroad to ensure that Solomon Islands participate proactively in international dialogues and negotiations.
The Solomon Islands currently has a Charge de Affairs, Mr. Simon Fuo'o, looking after the Mission in Geneva. Hon. Agovaka has indicated that a substantive appointment has been made and is expected to take up his official posting in November.
Source: Press Release, Government Communications Unit