SEASONED diplomat, Joseph Ma’ahanua is Solomon Islands’ new High Commissioner to Fiji, it was confirmed to Solomon Star, Thursday.
In a brief interview Mr. Ma’ahanua said that subject to Covid pandemic on the ground, he hopes to leave for Suva by the end of the month.
Strengthening bilateral relations tops his agenda when he gets to Suva. This includes addressing issues which affect the welfare of Solomon Islands students studying in Fiji.
The other issue which is high on his bilateral agenda is the Air Services Agreement (ASA) between Solomon Islands and Fiji.
“We hope to look at what the issues were when this particular agreement was signed and the need to ensure it reflects the mutual benefits of the two countries,” Mr. Ma’ahanua said.
The new Solomon Islands envoy to Fiji is one of Solomon Islands’ longest serving diplomats. Prior to becoming the Head of Mission in Brussels, Mr. Ma’ahanua was the deputy. He became Head of Mission in 2005.
After 10 years as Solomon Islands’ Ambassador to the European Union, based in Brussels, Mr. Ma’ahanua returned to Solomon Islands and continued to work as a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade until his recent appointment.
Mr. Ma’ahanua, who comes from West Are’Are on Malaita, replaces Fred Soaki who was Solomon Islands’ last High Commissioner to Fiji.
