PM Manele: Football a powerful vehicle for Unity, Peace, and Development
Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele MP, took time out last night to attend the much-anticipated friendly match between the Solomon Islands National Football Team and Australia’s Brisbane Roar Football Club at the National Stadium.
Undeterred by the wet weather, the Prime Minister joined enthusiastic fans to witness the spirit of international friendship unfold on the pitch.
In his brief remarks before the kick-off, Prime Minister Manele spoke passionately about the deeper significance of the milestone in sports diplomacy and further cements the strong and enduring partnership between the Government of Solomon Islands and the Australian Government.
Prime Minister Manele hailed the friendly match as more than about goals and glory. It is a celebration of shared values, friendship, and power of sport to unite nations and connect communities.
Group Photo.
Football is a powerful vehicle for unity, peace and development, he stressed.
“Football is more than just a game. It is a bridge that connects communities, foster partnerships and inspires our youth. Tonight, we see the unifying power of sport at work, strengthening our people-to-people ties and advancing regional solidarity.”
The Prime Minister extended sincere gratitude to the Government of Australia for its unwavering commitment to supporting sports development across the Pacific, including Solomon Islands.
“Today we acknowledge and celebrate how football has deepened the ties between Solomon Islands and Australia.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged the Australian High Commission in Honiara for its continued and invaluable support for football development in the country, and for its role in facilitating the Brisbane Roar visit under the PacificAus Sports Diplomacy initiative.
Prime Minister Manele, H.E Hilton and SIFF President Marahare pose for a photo before the match.
He also recognised the important role played by Football Australia, whose backing has helped to create opportunities for Solomon Islands’ national players to gain international exposure, grow their skills, and strengthen the country’s sporting identity in the region.
The Prime Minister reserved special acknowledgement for the Solomon Islands Football Federation as well as football partners for their dedication in developing football across our islands. The Solomon Islands Government is a proud partner in sport and youth development.
Prime Minister Manele was joined by a number of his senior Cabinet Ministers and the Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands His Excellency Rod Hilton among other dignitaries and officials.
[Ends]– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT