SOLOMON Islanders are urged to cooperate during the current recovery process.
Chairman of the National Disaster Council (NDC) and Permanent Secretary of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology Dr Melchior Mataki made the call yesterday.
“The country has endured a week filled with destruction and enormous tragedy and now is the time to work together,” Dr Mataki said.
“Together as a nation, we must now focus not only on recovering from these events, but also reducing the risks of a disaster like this happening here again,” he added.
He said the help we have already received during our time of need is beyond valuable.
“We have seen the true meaning of friendship from all partners and people, both local and international,” he said.
The NDC appeals to stakeholders, including non-government organisations and other donors, to cooperate within existing disaster management operations.
“We are appealing to all partners and people to continue working together alongside us, so that we may restore the Solomon Islands and move as quickly towards normalcy as possible,” said Dr Mataki.
“We understand there are many people still in need of assistance. To those people: please be assured we are doing all we can to reach you and provide you with the support you need. This is still our priority,” he said.
“To the families of those who have been lost during this tragedy to know how sorry we are for their loss. Please know that together as a nation our deepest thoughts are with you.”
The National Disaster Management Office is currently reviewing reports of damages to the provinces.
So far the Office has received reports from Malaita and Isabel and will be responding appropriately.
