PM Matthew Wale meets Temotu Premier Stanley Tehiahua, discussing reforms, maritime connectivity, illegal logging and mining.
Prime Minister Matthew Wale today received a courtesy visit from Temotu Province Premier Stanley Tehiahua and his executive.
During the meeting, Premier Tehiahua reaffirmed the support of the Temotu Provincial Government and the people of Temotu for the leadership of Prime Minister Wale and the GREAT Coalition Government.
The Premier said his administration fully supports the reforms and policies being pursued by the GREAT Coalition Government.
“The reforms reflect the heart and cries of our people. We fully trust your leadership in moving our country forward,” Premier Tehiahua said.
He said Temotu would continue to embrace unity and contribute to the development and progress of Solomon Islands as one nation.
Premier Tehiahua also briefed the Prime Minister on the province’s key priorities, achievements and challenges, highlighting maritime connectivity as one of the major issues facing Temotu.
He said the province had continued to face difficulties with maritime transportation, which he described as an issue that successive governments had failed to adequately address.
The Premier also raised concerns over illegal logging and mining activities in the province.
He shared the challenges faced by the provincial government in effectively enforcing its regulations.
In response, Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the Premier and his executive for the visit and assured them that his government remained accessible to the provinces.
“My door is always open,” Prime Minister Wale said.
The Prime Minister directed Premier Tehiahua to formally document and submit details of the alleged illegal logging and mining activities to his office.
He said the information would allow the Government to initiate the appropriate formal investigations.
Prime Minister Wale also outlined some of the reforms being undertaken by the GREAT Coalition Government.
This he said includes the review of the Provincial Government Act as part of efforts to strengthen the relationship between the national and provincial governments.
On maritime connectivity, the Prime Minister said the Government looks to support Temotu with two shipping vessels under its policy.
One vessel will provide services within Temotu Province, while the second will operate between Temotu and Honiara, improving connectivity for the province and its people.
Prime Minister Wale also encouraged Temotu Province to explore opportunities in seaweed farming through the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, as an avenue for economic development and livelihood opportunities for its people.
The Prime Minister said the Government would continue working closely with provincial administrations to address challenges, strengthen service delivery and advance development across Solomon Islands.
SOURCE//: Office of Prime Minister Press Release
