A female career diplomat who has served the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the past 14 years has been appointed as Solomon Islands’ next ambassador to Indonesia.
Gladys Kamia Isihanua was officially commissioned this morning by Governor General Sir David Tiva Kapu to take up the post.
She succeeds Ambassador Salana Kalu, who has returned and is now serving with the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Isihanua holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Politics from the University of the South Pacific (USP) and a Master’s degree in International Relations from Loughborough University in the United Kingdom.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, she began her career in the Foreign Service in 2011.
“Most recently, she served as Assistant Secretary for the Ocean and Climate Change Desk, a position she held since August 2021,” the statement said.
“She also served as Assistant Secretary for the Asia and Africa Desk.”
Her overseas postings include serving as Counsellor at the Solomon Islands High Commission in London and as Chargé d’Affaires at the Solomon Islands Embassy in Taipei, Taiwan, from August 2014 to September 2016.
At this morning’s commissioning ceremony, Governor General Sir David highlighted the significance of Isihanua’s role in representing and promoting the interests of Solomon Islands in Indonesia.
“As Ambassador, your foremost responsibility is to serve the national interest and provide sound advice on all matters during your tenure,” Sir David said.
He also spoke candidly about the financial challenges the country faces in maintaining diplomatic missions abroad, stressing the need for fiscal discipline.
“The operation of permanent diplomatic missions is a costly undertaking.
Given our current financial constraints, it is imperative that cost-saving measures are observed without compromising the effective discharge of your duties.
Extravagance must be avoided at all costs.”
Sir David added that striking a balance between cost-efficiency and effective diplomacy would require tact and sound strategic judgment.
“Your appointment as Head of Mission is no coincidence.
“I am confident you possess the personal qualities, professional attributes, and experience necessary to carry out this important role.
“The Government of Solomon Islands has entrusted you with this responsibility, and you have now pledged your allegiance to that trust.”