Prime Minister Matthew Wale says Solomon Islands is pursuing a balanced and constructive foreign policy while reaffirming the country’s longstanding partnership with Japan.
Wale made the remarks during bilateral talks with Japan’s visiting State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Iwao Horii, in Honiara today.
“We are committed to engaging with all countries in a manner that is mutually respectful and mutually beneficial,” Wale told Horii.
“Our approach is to build broad, inclusive partnerships that deliver tangible outcomes for our people,” he added.
The Prime Minister thanked Japan for its decades of support to Solomon Islands and praised its use of diplomacy and development assistance to build strong international relationships.
“Japan’s soft power has been remarkably effective in fostering genuine and lasting friendships across the world.
“We have long admired how Japan engages globally with respect, consistency and goodwill,” he said.
Wale said Solomon Islands had benefited significantly from Japan’s assistance over the years.
“Many of your contributions here have made a meaningful difference and we sincerely appreciate them.
“We look forward to strengthening this partnership even further in the years ahead.”
Over the years, Japan has funded a number of major infrastructure projects across Solomon Islands.
These include the Honiara Highway Road Project, Honiara Central Market, the Honiara International Airport terminal, Gizo Hospital in Western Province, Auki Market and Wharf, and the soon-to-be-completed Kilufi’i Hospital in Malaita.
Horii reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Solomon Islands, describing the two countries as longstanding partners connected by the Pacific and bound by mutual respect.
He said Japan remained committed to supporting Solomon Islands’ sustainable economic development while responding to the country’s priorities.
“For many years, Japan has placed great importance on supporting the sustainable economic growth of Solomon Islands,” Horii said.
“We will continue to listen closely to your national priorities and work together to address the challenges facing your country,” he added.
He also welcomed the Wale Government’s commitment to maintaining balanced and constructive relations with all international partners.
“Japan stands ready to support the new Government’s key policy initiatives.”
