Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape has pledged 5 million Kina to assist the Solomon Islands in hosting the Pacific Islands Leaders Forum this year.

The announcement came during a bilateral meeting with Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele at the Honiara Summit 2025.

During their discussions, the two leaders aimed to strengthen the longstanding ties between their countries.

Marape assured Manele that PNG would provide state-of-the-art facilities for cancer, heart, and kidney treatment, where Solomon Islands referral patients can access care at the same costs as PNG citizens.

He also proposed budget support for the Solomon Islands government from 2026 to 2030, similar to previous collaborations.

According to a media statement from the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Press Secretariat, Manele expressed gratitude for PNG’s support and suggested regular cooperation talks, with annual meetings for senior officials and biennial meetings for the leaders.

 He emphasized the deep historical and cultural connections between the two countries which exist beyond colonial borders.

Prime Minister Manele also accepted Marape’s invitation to attend PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Port Moresby on September 16.

He affirmed Solomon Islands’ respect for PNG’s sovereignty, particularly regarding the political situation in Bougainville.

(PC: OPMC PRESS) PM Jeremiah Manele and PM James Marape poses with their staff after their bilateral

Additionally, Manele extended condolences for the recent passing of former Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan, honoring his legacy and contributions to PNG’s development.

Marape also thanked Manele for hosting over 50 PNG companies that have invested in various sectors within the Solomon Islands, further solidifying the economic relationship between the two countries.