PM Manele Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Ties with Switzerland
Prime Minister Honourable Jeremiah Manele, MP, has reaffirmed the Solomon Islands’ commitment to deepening diplomatic and development cooperation with Switzerland during a courtesy meeting with Her Excellency Barbara Anna Gonzenbach.
In acknowledging the diplomatic ties established in 2007, Prime Minister Manele expressed appreciation for Switzerland’s continued engagement with Pacific nations, noting the presence of its embassy in Canberra as a symbol of goodwill and friendship.
Discussions focused on strengthening development cooperation, with Prime Minister Manele underscoring the Solomon Islands’ interest in working closely with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) to support sustainable development projects. He highlighted climate adaptation, renewable energy, and rural community resilience as priority areas for collaboration.
The Prime Minister further emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, describing the Solomon Islands’ high vulnerability to rising sea levels and natural disasters. He proposed joint initiatives with Switzerland that could leverage its global expertise in environmental sustainability and humanitarian aid to strengthen national resilience.
On economic opportunities, Prime Minister Manele welcomed the prospect of Swiss businesses exploring investment in fisheries, tourism, and agriculture. He also noted that Switzerland’s global financial expertise could serve as a catalyst for mutually beneficial trade and investment partnerships.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Manele proposed the development of a roadmap for expanded cooperation between the two nations. Areas identified for potential collaboration include disaster preparedness, green technology, and health, all of which align with the Solomon Islands’ national priorities and Switzerland’s global commitments.
Her Excellency Anna also reaffirmed the shared values of partnership and cooperation between the Solomon Islands and Switzerland, paving the way for deeper ties in the years to come.
END///
– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT