The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PM) James Marape will arrive in Honiara today for his first state visit to the Solomon Islands.
A statement from the Government Communication Unit said the three-day visit will be from Thursday 27th to Saturday 29th February 2020.
“This will be the first State Visit by Prime Minister Marape to the Solomon Islands since taking office in May 2019,” the statement said.
The official program for Marape’s visit will include a courtesy call to the Governor-General, a meeting with Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, a formal bilateral meeting between the two governments and a possible investor dialogue which is still being finalized with the PNG counterparts.
The state visit is important for both countries. It will further strengthen the bilateral relations and cooperation between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. The two countries have a shared history based on blood ties and cultural connections.
“We share a common border. Our relationship has strengthened over the years. Both countries work together in several areas including on biosecurity, customs cooperation, education, police cooperation and aviation,” the statement said.
The visit signals his intention to step up his country’s engagement with the Solomon Islands on areas of mutual interest.
This is a priority that is shared and reciprocated by Prime Minister Sogavare. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare is looking forward to welcoming Prime Minister Marape and his delegation during the State Visit.
Prime Minister Marape will be accompanied by his spouse, Madame Rachael Marape, several Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials and a group of PNG Investors.
The Prime Minister and delegation depart on Saturday 29th February.
Marape has visited New Zealand and Fiji over the past week.
