MANETOALI CALLS FOR CULTURAL TOLERANCE

MP for Gao Bugotu and Culture Minister, Honourable Samuel Manetoali. Photo credit: SIBC.

Minister for Culture and Tourism, Samuel Manetoali has called for cultural tolerance, saying it must be upheld at all times to promote respect and cohesion in Solomon Islands societies.

Minister Manetoali made the statement at the live dress rehearsal of the national contingent to the upcoming fifth Melanesian Festival of Arts and Culture in Honiara today.

In his opening speech, the Minister said it is important to promote cultural values and heritages in a globalised world.

The Culture and Tourism Minister also called for cultural tolerance.

“Ladies and gentlemen Solomon Islands is a nation rich with cultural diversity. We are a nation united by our diverse cultures. It is therefore important that cultural values and heritages are promoted to ensure our identity and our sense of rootedness are maintained in this new globalised world. Furthermore, promoting the diverse cultures of Solomon Islands is vital as it fosters inclusive development amongst our people. Cultural tolerance must be upheld at all times as it promotes respect and cohesion in our society.”

The Culture and Tourism Minister also said today’s dress rehearsal was a manifestation of efforts to keep Solomon Islands cultures alive.

“Today I am very pleased to see preparedness of our contingent and am confident they will be great arts and cultural ambassadors of Solomon Islands o this auspicious occasion in Papua New Guinea. We must be united in our diversity and take pride in this men and women. I certainly believe they will carry our flag with great pride and dignity.”

SIBC News understands the 168-strong contingent begin leaving Honiara for Papua New Guinea next Tuesday.