TUVALU’S Prime Minister Feleti Teo paid a heartfelt visit to the Solovalu (Solomon Islands Tuvalu) Community in Henderson on Wednesday evening.
PM Teo, who is in Honiara for the Honiara Summit, took the opportunity to engage with the Tuvaluan diaspora living on the eastern outskirts of the national capital.
In his accompaniment were his wife, the Tuvalu Minister for Natural Resources, including Fisheries, Sa’aga Talu Teafa, Solomon Islands Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Paul Popora Bosawai, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Derick Franklyn Wasi and the Minister for Culture and Tourism, Choylin Yim Douglas.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by the elders of the Solovalu community as it marked a significant moment for them.
Bernadine Manuia of the Solovalu Community expressed gratitude during a welcome ceremony for the delegation.
“We honoured and are humbly grateful to welcome you, the Prime Minister for taking the time to visit our humble home. Your presence is a testament to our ongoing strong relations.”
Ms Manuia went on to highlight the significance of the visit.
“Today is a historic day for us as we host our very own Prime Minister of Tuvalu and your beautiful wife in our community. We are honoured to welcome you and your delegation here.”
Ms Manuia further acknowledged PM Teo’s strong ties with the Solovalu Community, which he established when he served as Director General of the Forum Fisheries Agency from 2000 to 2006.
PM Teo, in response, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the warm welcome accorded to him and his delegation.
He said it was quite a significant moment for him to meet the Solvalu Community.
“Tuvalu has many such communities across the Pacific and it is a privilege to connect with the diaspora here in Solomon Islands.
“Meeting the Solovalu Community is particularly special as I was part of this very community for six years.”
He thanked the Solvalu elders for their pride in being Tuvaluans and expressed hope for continued collaboration between Tuvalu and Solomon Islands.
The evening concluded with entertainment from the Solvalu Community, who passionately showcased their rich cultures.
The visiting delegation also received gifts from the Solvalu Community as a gesture of gratitude for their visit.
By JIMMY NOLAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
