Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has extended Papua New Guinea’s warm Congratulations to Hon. Matthew Wale on his Election as the new Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands following today’s Parliamentary vote in Honiara.
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea respected the democratic processes of the Solomon Islands Parliament and people, and looked forward to continuing the strong Melanesian partnership between the two neighbouring Nations. “On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I convey my sincere Congratulations to Prime Minister Matthew Wale on his successful Election as Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands share deep historical, cultural, and regional ties as Melanesian brothers and neighbours. We look forward to working closely with Prime Minister Wale and his Government in advancing our shared interests for peace, economic growth, security cooperation, climate resilience, and regional unity.”
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea remained committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation with the Solomon Islands across areas such as trade, fisheries, labour mobility, education, infrastructure development, security, and people-to-people relations. “Our countries have stood together over many decades, and we will continue to build on that relationship for the benefit of our peoples and the wider Pacific region,” he said. Prime Minister Marape also acknowledged and thanked former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele for his leadership and partnership during his tenure in office. “I also wish to sincerely thank outgoing Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele for the friendship and cooperation shared between our two Governments during his time as Prime Minister,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “Prime Minister Manele demonstrated strong commitment to regional cooperation and constructive engagement with Papua New Guinea, including his recent visit to our country. We appreciate his contribution to strengthening ties between our Nations and wish him well in his future service to Solomon Islands.”
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea valued stability and continuity in the Pacific region and would continue supporting closer cooperation among Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) countries and the wider Pacific family. “The Pacific region is stronger when we work together in unity and mutual respect. Papua New Guinea remains committed to fostering positive relations with Solomon Islands and all our Pacific neighbours as we address common challenges and pursue shared opportunities,” he said. Prime Minister Marape confirmed that he would later today place an official congratulatory phone call to Prime Minister Wale to personally convey Papua New Guinea’s best wishes and commitment to continued cooperation between the two nations. “Papua New Guinea stands ready to work with the new Solomon Islands Government in the spirit of partnership, friendship, and regional solidarity,” Prime Minister Marape said.