PRIME Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo today held a brief meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry.
The US Secretary arrived in the country today afternoon and paid a courtesy call on the Governor General and later met with Prime Minister Lilo.
During the meeting, both leaders acknowledged historical ties between the Solomon Islands and United States since the Second World War.
Both leaders have also agreed to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
Thus, in a bid to deepen the bi-lateral relation, Secretary Kerry agreed to consider Prime Minister Lilo’s request to open the US Embassy in Honiara.
In return, Mr Kerry asked Prime Minister Lilo to work with him to implement sustainable forestry measures as well as sustainable ocean resources management and climate change mitigation.
Secretary Kerry then assured the Prime Minister that United States is prepared to support Solomon Islands for smooth and fair elections this year to uphold democratic processes.
Prime Minister Lilo also used the occasion to inform Mr Kerry of the Government’s work towards having smooth general elections and a strong political party system and culture.
Apart from discussing other issues of mutual interest, the United States has also offered to provide scholarships for our students to study there as well as investing in health in the country.
After visiting the Bloody Ridge WWII site with the Prime Minister, both leaders also agreed to work towards declaring the site as a World Heritage Site which will boost Solomon Islands tourism travel.
– PMO
