The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Honorable Peter Shanel Agovaka has met with a United States Congressional delegation (CODEL) led by Congressman Mr. Amarish Babulal Bera on the 28th May 2024 in Honiara.
The delegation is in the country to hold discussions with the Prime Minister and also made a courtesy call to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Discussions concentrated on areas of mutual concern and interest.
Minister Agovaka relayed Solomon Islands hosting of the high-level United Nations Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 in Honiara on February 2025.
The Minister also highlighted that there is a need for collaboration on the Education and Health sectors between the two countries.
The issue of UXOs was an issue brought up as it is a priority that both governments need to urgently address to remove explosive remnants from World War II.
Malaria is one of the silent killers especially in isolated areas and both want to see collaboration in the fight against the eradication of malaria in Solomon Islands.
There is also a deep desire for economic development in Solomon Islands and the Solomon Islands commended the ongoing work on the Millenium Development Challenge (MCC) of the United States government to further develop other sectors.
Congressman Bera stated that Solomon Islands and United States will sign partnership to address climate change. Regarding peace corps, both countries will continue to work closely to advance talks and finalize the agreement.
Congressman Amarish Bera is a strong supporter of the Pacific Islands and Solomon Islands issues. He is part of a group within Congress called the Pacific Islands Caucus group that has been advocating for greater focus and prioritization on issues of interest to Pacific Islands countries.
– MFAET
