Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele MP, and the Director-General of the Pacific Community (SPC), Dr. Stuart Minchin, have held a highly successful bilateral meeting in Honiara.
This marks the first such meeting between Dr. Minchin and Prime Minister Manele since the latter assumed office.
The discussions centered on deepening the collaboration between the Solomon Islands and SPC, with a focus on key initiatives that align with both regional priorities and the national development objectives of the Solomon Islands.
The meeting underscored SPC’s ongoing efforts in fostering regional integration, advancing climate action, and promoting sustainable development.
Additionally, updates on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity (UBPP) initiative were shared.
Prime Minister Manele expressed his appreciation for SPC’s continued support in vital sectors such as climate change, health, fisheries, and education.
He highlighted SPC’s investment in strengthening systems and capacities that assist member countries, including the Solomon Islands, in implementing policies and programs sustainably.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the critical importance of youth engagement, specifically through the Pacific Youth Engagement, Empowerment, and Economic Pathways (PYEEP) project.
He noted the need for continued sustainability and coordination with relevant ministries after the completion of the program, ensuring long-term impact.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Manele raised concerns regarding the potential impact of the United States funding freeze on SPC programs in the Solomon Islands.
He called for enhanced collaboration and transparency to address these challenges effectively.
Both the Solomon Islands Government and SPC reiterated their strong commitment to advancing the Pacific region’s development goals through enhanced cooperation.
Prime Minister Manele reaffirmed the Solomon Islands’ dedication to maintaining a close and productive partnership with SPC.
Dr. Minchin expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Manele for dedicating time for this important bilateral meeting.
He provided an overview of SPC’s work in the Solomon Islands and discussed areas of mutual interest, as well as potential avenues to further strengthen SPC’s support to the Solomon Islands Government.
Additionally, Dr. Minchin took the opportunity to introduce Ms. Sarah Mecartney, the Director of the SPC Melanesia Regional Office in Port Vila, Vanuatu, as part of ongoing efforts to build stronger regional ties.
This meeting marks a significant step in the continued collaboration between the Solomon Islands and SPC, reaffirming their shared commitment to sustainable development and regional prosperity.
- OPMC
