The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele, has expressed condolences to Vanuatu following the recent 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Port Vila on December 17. The earthquake caused significant damage to infrastructure and resulted in the tragic loss of lives.
In his message to Vanuatu’s Caretaker Prime Minister, Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas, Prime Minister Manele conveyed condolences on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and its people: “It is with profound sorrow and sadness that I write to you, your government, and the people of the Republic of Vanuatu to convey our deepest condolences for the loss of lives and the extensive destruction of property and infrastructure caused by the devastating earthquake that struck your country yesterday.”
The Prime Minister also expressed solidarity with the people of Vanuatu during this challenging time, emphasizing the Solomon Islands’ support for recovery efforts: “Words cannot express the depth of sadness and sorrow we feel as we hear about the loss of lives and the level of destruction in your national capital and other areas of Vanuatu.”
Prime Minister Manele further conveyed thoughts and prayers to those affected, offering comfort to families and communities facing the aftermath of the disaster:
“May our Almighty God comfort them and give them the strength to endure as they face the pain and sorrow of losing their loved ones, properties, and belongings.”
The Prime Minister concluded the letter with a message of hope, expressing confidence in Vanuatu’s resilience: “We pray that God will continue to bless and guide the government and people of Vanuatu during this difficult time.”
In line with Melanesian solidarity, the Solomon Islands Government has pledged assistance to Vanuatu to help restore normalcy in affected areas.
Source: OPMC Press Secretariat
