PRIME Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo yesterday held bilateral talks with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key in Honiara.
Mr Key was here for RAMSI’s 10th anniversary celebrations.
The brief meeting was to provide an overview for both Prime Ministers of the current engagements between the Solomon Islands and New Zealand.
Mr Lilo during the meeting highlighted that Solomon Islands and New Zealand have always maintained cordial relations based on respect.
He said New Zealand has always been a firm supporter in the development aspirations of Solomon Islands.
He also told his counterpart that the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has also been an important multilateral partnership for both Solomon Islands and New Zealand.
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| Solomon Island PM with NZ PM. S.Star Photo |
The prime minister also conveyed his appreciation to New Zealand assistance towards the Police Housing Project.
Mr Lilo also acknowledged the New Zealand as an important donor partner especially in strategic focal areas in economic development, human development and support towards safe and secure communities.
Prime Minister Lilo also highlighted the importance of New Zealand’s support in infrastructural development particularly for road and Munda International airport development; support for education in Solomon Islands particularly on tertiary education and scholarships for Solomon Islanders to study abroad.
Mr Lilo also accredited New Zealand funding through the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources under the Fisheries Sector Programme.
Mr Key in response thanked Prime Minister Lilo for welcoming him and his delegation to the Solomon Islands.
He reiterated New Zealand’s commitment in aid and security in Solomon Islands and the region.
Mr Key said New Zealand is also committed in developing tourism, fisheries and the agricultural sector as these are important for economic development.
“New Zealand wants to make sure our aid is not only consumable but also has a positive impact in the long run,” Mr Key said.
Solomon Star