Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy MP has arrived in Honiara around lunch time for a serious of discussions and important announcements to make for the country.
The visit is part of his trip to Solomons Islands and Papua New Guinea (PNG) this week, the Australian High Commission Office said.
The visit is important to further strengthen Australia’s deep and enduring partnerships in the Pacific, the statement said this morning.
Minister Conroy said Australia and Solomon Islands have interconnected futures.
“We share a region and an ocean,” Minister Conroy said.
Upon his arrival today at the Honiara international airport, he was met by the Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services Jimson Tanangada.
While in Honiara Minister Conroy will meet with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and other senior government ministers.
He said, he looks forward to discussing the substantial economic and development partnerships Australia and Solomon Islands share.
He will also engage with students at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).
An additional support package to the country’s health sector through the Partnerships for a Healthy Region initiative will also be announced.
A new wharf infrastructure for the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and other initiatives to support maritime security, customs and economic development, will also be announced during this visit.
“I look forward to discussing the next phase of our security partnership with Solomon Islands, following the conclusion of the Solomon Islands Assistance Force.”
He said, Australia is committed to contributing to a stronger Pacific family and working together for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.”
From Honiara the delegation will travel to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
- MOFFAT MAMU
