Soft Launch of Solomon Islands High Commission Chancery in Suva, Fiji

Wednesday 25 June 2025 —This week marked the beginning of operations with the soft launch of the Solomon Islands High Commission Chancery in Suva, Fiji — a significant step towards further consolidating and deepening existing relations between Solomon Islands and Fiji.

The ceremony took place alongside the soft launch of the Vanuatu High Commission on Tuesday 24 June 2025. This ceremony highlights a shared commitment by both Pacific nations to strengthen their diplomatic presence in Fiji.

Addressing a gathering of regional leaders and dignitaries, including the Honorable Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu, Jotham Napat, and Fiji’s Special Envoy and High Commissioner to New Zealand, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele emphasized that this ceremony represents more than a symbolic event — it is a firm commitment to strengthening Solomon Islands’ presence and ties in Fiji.

“This groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of something big for our people,” said Prime Minister Manele. “The unveiling of the Board symbolizes the true and deep friendship that has been formally established over the last four decades between the Republic of Fiji and Solomon Islands.”

Prime Minister Manele acknowledged that the Government of Fiji generously allocated land for the chancery back in 2012, reflecting the strong partnership between the two countries. The site is located on Wantok Drive along Muanikau Road in Suva. He said the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is now prioritizing the project and committed to building the chancery. Funding for designs and construction has been secured with partners, and work is now underway, including plans to build a protective fence around the site.

Highlighting Suva’s growing importance as a regional hub, Prime Minister Manele pointed out the necessity of a strong Solomon Islands presence, especially as many Solomon Islands students pursue their education in Fiji. “Being neighbors and sharing a diaspora of descendants here, Solomon Islands will always make our connection and relations with Fiji a very important one,” he said.

The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to the Government of Vanuatu, noting the closeness shared through maritime borders and the growing connection now reflected in their chanceries’ physical proximity in Suva.

A culturally significant moment of the ceremony was the planting of a betelnut tree — a symbol of “tok stori,” the traditional practice of dialogue and unity passed down by Solomon Islands’ forefathers.

The betelnut tree represents bringing families together and exchanging gifts during key ceremonies. Prime Minister Manele said this gesture affirms the ongoing value Solomon Islands places on its relationship and partnership with Fiji since 1978.

[ENDS]

– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT