Governor General Commissions H.E. Gladys Kamia Isihanua as Ambassador to Indonesia
The Governor General of Solomon Islands, His Excellency Sir David Tiva Kapu, officially commissioned Her Excellency Gladys Kamia Isihanua as the Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia in a formal ceremony held this morning at Government House.
Present at the ceremony were the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, Permanent Secretary Collin Beck, senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET), representatives from Government House, and members of Ambassador Isihanuas’ family.
In congratulating the newly appointed ambassador, the Governor General emphasized the significance of her role in representing and promoting the interests of the Government and people of Solomon Islands in Indonesia.
“As Ambassador, your foremost responsibility is to serve the national interest and provide sound advice on all matters during your tenure,” Sir David stated.
The new Ambassador of Solomon Islands to Indonesia, Her Excellency, Gladys Kamia Isihanua with her family with the Governor General, Sir David Tiva Kapu, Lady Kapu and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka.
He further highlighted the financial challenges the country faces in maintaining diplomatic missions abroad, underscoring the importance of fiscal responsibility.
“The operation of permanent diplomatic missions is a costly undertaking. Given our current financial constraints, it is imperative that cost-saving measures are observed without compromising the effective discharge of your duties. Extravagance must be avoided at all costs.”
Sir David noted that achieving a balance between cost-efficiency and effective diplomacy requires both tact and strategic judgment.
“Your appointment as Head of Mission is no coincidence. I am confident that you possess the personal qualities, professional attributes, and experience in state affairs necessary to carry out this important role. The Government of Solomon Islands has entrusted you with this responsibility, and you have now pledged your allegiance to that trust.”
Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia Her Excellency, Gladys Kamia Isihanua reads her Declaration of Loyalty and of Office in front of the Governor General, Sir David Tiva Kapu as her spouse, Alick Isihanua looks on.
Ambassador Isihanua holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Politics from the University of the South Pacific (USP) and a Master’s degree in International Relations from Loughborough University in the United Kingdom.
She began her career with the Foreign Service in 2011. Most recently, she served as Assistant Secretary for the Ocean and Climate Change Desk, a position she has held since August 2021. She has also served as Assistant Secretary for the Asia and Africa Desk.
Her overseas postings include serving as Counsellor at the Solomon Islands High Commission in London, United Kingdom, and as Chargé d’Affaires at Solomon Islands Embassy in Taipei, Taiwan, from August 2014 to September 2016.
She replaces former Ambassador, Salana Kalu who is now with the Prime Minister’s Office.
Ambassador Isihanua’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the continuing effort to strengthen bilateral relations between Solomon Islands and Indonesia.
ENDS//
-MFAET PRESS RELEASE