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Solomon Islands marks 47th Independence in Beijing with students and officials celebrating national progress.
The Minister of Education and Human Resources Development, Tozen Leokana, joined Solomon Islands nationals in Beijing on Monday evening to celebrate the country’s 47th Independence Anniversary.
The commemorative dinner was hosted by the Solomon Islands Embassy in Beijing.
The Ambassador of Solomon Islands to the People’s Republic of China, Barrett Salato, welcomed Minister Leokana and expressed appreciation for his participation in the milestone event. Salato also acknowledged the significant presence of Solomon Islands students in China, who make up the majority of the Solomon Islands diaspora in the country.
Currently, 166 Solomon Islands students are studying in China under the Chinese Government Scholarship Program.
In his remarks, Ambassador Salato commended the students for representing the country with pride and integrity, describing them as ambassadors of the Solomon Islands. He also outlined the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to support national development priorities and reflected on the achievements, challenges, and progress of the nation over the past 47 years.
Minister Leokana congratulated recent graduates on their hard work and success, encouraging all students to remain focused on their studies. He also shared his vision for the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development and expressed hope that graduates would return home to contribute to national development.
Speaking on behalf of the student body, Nelson Ameo thanked the Minister for attending the celebration and acknowledged the Embassy’s support for students. He praised the Embassy’s efforts to address student welfare through counseling, financial assistance, and by creating a welcoming environment—a “home away from home.”
Mr. Ameo concluded with a reflection on the values that unite the Solomon Islands’ diverse cultures and encouraged his peers to contribute positively to the nation’s future.
The evening featured a formal program with speeches, followed by a shared feast of Chinese and Western cuisine, and cultural performances by the students. It was a memorable night that brought together a culturally diverse community in a spirit of unity and national pride.
SOURCE: MFAET PRESS RELEASE
