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Solomon Islands opens High Commission Chancery in Suva, Fiji, marking stronger diplomatic ties with Pacific neighbors
Wednesday, 25 June 2025 — This week marked the beginning of operations with the soft launch of the Solomon Islands High Commission Chancery in Suva, Fiji — a significant step toward further consolidating and deepening existing relations between Solomon Islands and Fiji.
The ceremony was held alongside the soft launch of the Vanuatu High Commission on Tuesday, 24 June 2025. Both events reflect a shared commitment by the two Pacific nations to strengthen their diplomatic presence in Fiji.
Addressing a gathering of regional leaders and dignitaries, including Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu, Jotham Napat, and Fiji’s Special Envoy and High Commissioner to New Zealand, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele emphasized that the ceremony represents more than a symbolic event — it is a firm commitment to strengthening Solomon Islands’ presence and ties in Fiji.
Planting a betelnut tree – a symbol of “tok stori”
“This groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of something big for our people,” said Prime Minister Manele. “The unveiling of the Board symbolizes the true and deep friendship that has been formally established over the last four decades between the Republic of Fiji and Solomon Islands.”
Manele acknowledged that the Government of Fiji generously allocated land for the chancery in 2012, reflecting the strong partnership between the two countries. The chancery site is located on Wantok Drive along Muanikau Road in Suva. He stated that the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is prioritizing the project and is committed to completing the chancery. Funding for design and construction has been secured with partners, and initial work has begun, including plans to build a protective fence around the site.
Highlighting Suva’s increasing importance as a regional hub, Manele noted the need for a strong Solomon Islands presence, especially as many Solomon Islands students pursue education in Fiji.
“Being neighbours and sharing a diaspora of descendants here, Solomon Islands will always make our connection and relations with Fiji a very important one,” he said.
The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to the Government of Vanuatu, acknowledging the close ties shared through maritime borders and the growing connection now reflected in the physical proximity of the two countries’ chanceries in Suva.
A culturally significant part of the ceremony was the planting of a betelnut tree — a symbol of tok stori, the traditional practice of dialogue and unity passed down by Solomon Islands’ forefathers.
The betelnut tree represents the bringing together of families and the exchange of gifts during key ceremonies. Manele said the gesture reaffirms the ongoing value that Solomon Islands places on its relationship and partnership with Fiji since 1978.
SOURCE : OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT
