THE Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) will foster mutual understanding and cooperation on global issues based on the longstanding Solomon Islands Government Foreign Policy Principle of ‘Friends to All, Enemy to None.’
This was highlighted by the Governor General Reverend David Tiva Kapu in his first ‘Speech from the Throne’ to Parliament on Monday.
“The Government will maintain its foreign policy position of “Friends to all enemy to none.”
“Our country’s foreign policy objectives shall be pursued through a collaborative approach that fosters mutual understanding and cooperation on key global issues.”
Governor General Kapu said the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) will continue to strengthen international trading partnerships to promote investment cooperation and external trade by facilitating the exchange of goods and services between nations.
“It is envisaged that this will benefit our local economy and transform our people’s lives,” he added.
Governor General Kapu said GNUT through the Ministry of Finance and Treasury will review taxation legislation to addresses disparities and promote robust and efficient tax system.
He said GNUT will continue to progress reform to enhance private sector development through improving ease of access to capital and reduce cost of doing business and accelerate ongoing flagship projects and identify potential areas to be prioritised to enhance growth.
The Governor General said the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination will ensure the country’s development budget adheres to its medium-term development plan.
“Donor assisted development programs and projects will be coordinated to ensure tangible and meaningful alignment with our National Development Strategy (NDS) and GNUT Policy priorities,” he added.
Governor General Kapu said GNUT will progress work on a smooth transition strategy towards our Least Developed Country (LDC) graduation, including the implementation of targeted capacity-building programs, addressing of the impacts of graduation on key sectors and focusing attention on critical economic development projects.
He said GNUT also plans to conduct a donor dialogue to establish a shared vision and close cooperation and partnership with our development partners.
The Traditional Speech from the Throne was delivered by the Governor General at the commencement of Parliament following the election of the Prime Minister and formation of the government after every National General Election.
The speech entails the ruling government’s policy program during its tenure.
By IAN LADDS OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
