SIR KOSTAS CONSTANTINOU – the giant of a business man who chose Solomon Islands as the alternative investment destination – has passed on, according to a paid newspaper advertisement.
“Sir Kostas built an empire across the Pacific. The Constantinou Group, continuing the legacy of his late father Sir George Constantinou. His business savvy and charisma had him appointed chair for various organizations, including Bank South Pacific and Air Niugini,” the announcement of the death, said.
Closer to home, Sir Kostas was the founding Director of the Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara.
“He planned the hotel during the time the ethnic unrest was settling down in the country in 2005 and could foresee that tourism and business development would one day attract increasing number of visitors to the country.
“Keeping this in mind, he built a hotel which would offer services of world class standard in Honiara. His vision continues to be fulfilled,” the announcement said.
Described as an entrepreneur per excellence, Sir Kosta was “a resilient and proud Papua New Guinean at heart, creating employment opportunities, inspiring and encouraging all in the pursuit of opportunities and progress for the future.”
At the time of his death, Sir Kostas was Honorary for Greece and Solomon Islands Trade Commissioner in Papua New Guinea.
“As Trade Commissioner of Solomon Islands to PNG, he was responsible for the creation of opportunities for the investment of key PNG firms in Solomon Islands.”
Sir Kostas died on Saturday 17th June at the age of 66.
Family members described his death as a “terrible loss”.
“From the successes of the businesses that he managed and the boards on which he sat, he always made sure that money was invested back into communities around the country, particularly in healthcare and education,” the family said.
“Beyond all of his achievements in business, in community development and diplomacy, Sir Kostas was the leader of our family who shared his love and wisdom so warmly.
“We are all left with a terrible loss in our lives with his passing.
“The people, the workers and the business community of PNG have lost a champion for development, and his family and friends mourn the loss of a humble and beloved person.”
By Alfred Sasako
