PRIME Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, has urged the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) to pursue Melanesian solutions to MSG issues in order to maintain its relevance and influence.
Prime Minister Sogavare was presenting Solomon Islands National Statement at the 22nd MSG Leaders’ open plenary session in Port Vila, Vanuatu on Wednesday.
Keeping the statement within this year’s theme ‘MSG, being relevant and influential’, Prime Minister Sogavare reminded MSG Leaders of the importance of ‘uplifting’ the Pacific Way of tok stori, unity and solidarity in the current fluid political geopolitics.
“We must strengthen our trade, facilitate movement of people and have Melanesian solutions to address today’s realities.”
He said the world has changed drastically today than 35 years ago, when the sub-regional grouping was born.
Prime Minister Sogavare said the sub-region is confronted by a run-away climate change and is recovering from a global health pandemic, conflict, civil unrest and geopolitics.
However, he said he is optimistic that, “with our (MSG) Summit’s forward-looking agenda, there is an opportunity to invoke the umi tugeda spirit in confronting today’s realities.”
Touching on the management of the fast-changing international system, Prime Minister Sogavare said he is pleased that MSG is united in advocating for peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and cooperation over confrontation.
Prime Minister Sogavare also spoke on matters relating to decolonisation.
He encouraged MSG to collectively condemn the transboundary and intergenerational threat on ‘our people, economies and future.’
Prime Minister Sogavare strong opposed Japan’s decision to release nuclear treated water into the Pacific Ocean as it will have an impact on ‘our people, ocean, economy and livelihood.’
This is done in respect for MSG process.
He also congratulated Vanuatu for successfully hosting the 7th Melanesian Arts and Cultural Festival (MACFEST) a month ago.
Prime Minister Sogavare, who is also the Minister for the 2023 Pacific Games, said Solomon Islands looks forward to welcoming MSG contingents in Honiara for the Pacific Games.
– PM’s Press Secretariat/Solstar
