Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka (MP) highlighted the Solomon Islands’ commitment to strengthening its bilateral partnership with India during the Forum for India-Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Minister Agovaka expressed appreciation to the Government and people of India for their longstanding support to the Solomon Islands since the establishment of diplomatic relations in May 1987.

He acknowledged India’s contributions in education, including financial support for the relocation of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Forestry Campus, the establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Information Technology at SINU, and the deployment of Professor Dr. Kapila Mallah to support higher education.

The Minister also recognized India’s assistance in the health sector, including the provision of dialysis units, support during the COVID-19 pandemic, and logistical assistance for the 2023 Pacific Games.

He further noted India’s support for the operations of the Solomon Islands High Commission in New Delhi, which was officially established in 2023.

Minister Agovaka reaffirmed the Solomon Islands’ readiness to work closely with India to advance areas of mutual interest, strengthen people-to-people exchanges, and implement recently formalized agreements in health, pharmaceuticals, and education.

He also highlighted the government’s plan to officially inaugurate its High Commission in New Delhi, a milestone expected to further solidify the strong bilateral ties.

The Minister emphasized that the Solomon Islands treats all international partners as equals, maintains a neutral stance in global affairs, and is committed to addressing national priorities, advancing development goals, and responding to global challenges through cooperative engagement.