MAELANAGA CONGRATULATES RAMSI ON 11TH ANNIVERSARY
RAMSI Special Coordinator Justine Braithwaite talking to Acting Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga in the background. Photo credit: RAMSI.
Acting Prime Minister, Manasseh Maelanga has congratulated the Regional Assistance Mission of Solomon Islands, RAMSI on its eleventh Anniversary in the country.
RAMSI, also known as Operation Helpem Fren, was created in 2003 in response to a request for international security intervention by Parliament.
And on 24 July, 2003 over 2-thousand police and troops, led by Australia and New Zealand, and with representatives from other Pacific Island Forum nations began arriving in Solomon Islands.
On 1 July 2013, RAMSI military forces began a “phased redeployment” from the Solomon Islands, as part of the current 4-year RAMSI transition program.
Speaking to congratulate RAMSI today at the Breakwater Cafe in Honiara, Mr Maelanga says it has been 11 years of solidarity and cooperation.
“On behalf of the people and government of Solomon Islands I wish to express my gratitude to the officials and government representatives of Australia, New Zealand and the Forum participating countries, for the continuity, commitment and spirit of solidarity and cooperation to Solomon Islands over the past 11 years. We offer you a sincere gratitude and appreciation for your dedication, professionalism, humility and pride while undertaking your roles with the mission.”