PM Manele congratulates Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, celebrating 47 years of strong Solomon Islands-Japan relations.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has congratulated Japan’s Emperor Naruhito on his 65th birthday, reaffirming the strong diplomatic ties between Solomon Islands and Japan.
Speaking at a reception in Honiara on Thursday to mark Japan’s National Day, Manele wished the Emperor good health and prosperity. He highlighted the 47-year relationship between the two countries, describing Japan as a key development partner.
Since 2016, Solomon Islands has received more than SBD 653 million in assistance from Japan’s bilateral programs and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Manele said this support has significantly boosted national development, with major infrastructure projects such as the Honiara Port Wharf, the Honiara Road Improvement Project, and upgrades to Kilu’ufi and Gizo Hospitals.
He also acknowledged Japan’s contribution to human capital development through its scholarship programs and the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) initiative, which has been active in Solomon Islands since 1979.
Manele emphasized the importance of strengthening economic and trade ties, especially as Solomon Islands prepares to graduate from the Least Developed Country category. He also praised Japan’s role as a Dialogue Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum since 1989, calling for continued regional engagement and collaboration.
Source: OPMC
