In a gesture of goodwill and commitment to cooperation, Malaita Province’s newly elected Premier, Elijah Asilaua, has extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

Asilaua, who secured 21 votes in the recent Provincial Assembly election, expressed his gratitude to the members of the Assembly for their trust and confidence in his leadership.

In his inaugural speech, Premier Asilaua conveyed his best wishes to Prime Minister Manele and the newly formed Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).

He emphasized the importance of fostering a strong partnership between the Provincial and National governments to ensure the delivery of essential services and development projects to the people of Malaita.

The previous administration, led by former Premier Daniel Suidani, faced challenges in engaging with the national government, resulting in a lack of support for crucial initiatives in Malaita Province.

Premier Asilaua, said he is determined to avoid a repeat of past tensions and is eager to work closely with the Manele-led GNUT to advance the province’s economic growth and improve the lives of its residents.

“I have confidence that our collaboration with the Government for National Unity and Transformation and our development partners will pave the way for economic prosperity in Malaita,”  Premier Asilaua said.

 He highlighted the importance of empowering local communities to participate in commerce and trade, fostering self-reliance and sustainable development.

“This will keep us navigate together in the direction with a vision of development inspiration to transform the economy of Malaita for the prosperity of our people and our nation, the Solomon Islands, with values of peace, love, respect, trust and honesty.” He added.

Premier Asilaua added he is confident the collaboration with GNUT and development partners through their bilateral cooperation will boost opportunities where people can actively participate to maximize their resources and become self-reliant.