WE ARE WITH TAIWAN
By IAN M. KAUKUI
FIFTEEN government ministers and backbenchers wanted the country to maintain its diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Led by former Prime Minister and Minister for National Planning and Aid Coordination Rick Hou, the 14 MPs made their stance clear in a statement they issued last night.
“We believe Taiwan has been a genuine friend with Solomon Islands through thick and thin,” the statement reads.
“We state very clearly that we will not support any policy to change Solomon Islands diplomatic ties from Republic of China (Taiwan) to the People’s Republic of China (PRC),” it added.
“We believe the long term interests of our country – in terms of our development aspirations, as well as respect for democratic principles, human rights, rule of law, human dignity, and mutual respect – lie with Taiwan – not China.
“We are aware that the push for a switch from Taiwan to China is advocated by a minority group, and for reasons other than Solomon Islands’ national interests.”
The 15 MPs declared their stance in the wake of the ministerial delegation the Government sent to China last week.
The 15 ministers and backbenchers include:
1. Rick Hou (Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination
2. DrTautaiKaituu (Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs)
3. Augustine Auga (Minister for Agriculture and Livestock)
4. Samuel Manetoali (Minister for Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs
5. Stanley Sofu (Government backbencher and Deputy Speaker of Parliament)
6. William Marau (Minister for Lands and Housing)
7. Lanella Tanangada (Minister Police, National Security and Correctional Service)
8. Freda Tuki (Minister for Women, Youth Children and Family Affairs)
9. Bartholomew Parapolo (Minister for Tourism and Cultural Affairs)
10. Dr Culwick Togamana (Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology)
11. Dickson Mua (Minister for Health and Medical Services)
12. Senley Levi Filualea (Government backbencher)
13. Fredrick Kologeto (Minister for Public Service)
14. Jeremiah Manele (Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade)
15. John Kuku (Minister for Education and Human Resources Development)
