PM SOGAVARE THANKED AUSTRALIA’S CONTRIBUTION TO SOLOMONS

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has acknowledged Australia’s contribution towards Solomon Islands development especially its support for the upkeeping of law and order.

Mr. Sogavare made the remark during the recent Australian Day celebrations where he joined Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Andrew Byrne and other Australian citizens working or residing in the country.

He said the relation between the two countries remain cordial and deeply rooted as Australia continues to have a formidable presence in the country.

The Prime Minister said an affirmation of Australia’s commitment to Solomon Islands is the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) and its success is an attest to Australia’s leadership.

He said RAMSI is a success story because of the leadership provided by Australia.

Mr Sogavare said all Solomon Islanders should appreciate how Australia has and continues to contribute to the development and upkeep of the country – given its global responsibility for our betterment and advancement.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister said Australia has become a great and powerful nation today because of the vision and the tremendous sacrifices its leaders have invested in the past.

He said it is timely to remember them for their tireless efforts in invigorating and building Australia to where it is today.

Mr Sogavare also paid tribute to the contributions of many individual Australians to Solomon Islands.

He said his DCC-led government will continue to recognise the importance of peaceful coexistence with Australia as a regional and international partner to promote trade, economic and foreign relations.