BY MAVIS NISHIMURA PODOKOLO
SOLOMON Islands farewells a friend, who came to represent his country here, and in due time became a familiar face which will be remembered fondly by many, especially in the rurals where Japan has assisted in many developments.
A dinner reception was held in honour of Ambassador extraordinarily and plenipotentiary of Japan to Solomon Islands Mr Kenichi Kimiya and his wife Mitsuki Kimiya, on Wednesday evening in Honiara.
Speaking during the farewell ceremony, Prime Minister Rick Houenipwela said that Mr Kenichi is no stranger to the Pacific Islands – Melanesia to be more specific and has grown accustomed to our way of life.
He thanked outgoing Ambassador Kimiya for his remarkable journey and memorable supervision during his tenure in the office here in Solomon Islands.
“Mr Kimiya you have represented and served your country very well in Solomon Islands. You have demonstrated that Japan, by all intents and purpose is a country (and people) that is truly desirous in sharing its economic achievement and development experience with the rest of the world especially Solomon Islands.
“But as noted already, this would not been possible without fellow Japanese like yourself, who are committed in the discharge of your duties. On behalf of my people I congratulate you for this exceptionally high standard of work and professionalism,” PM Hou said.
He highlighted that it wouldn’t be possible if the person in charge of the office in Honiara does not possess the vision and care for the people of Solomon Islands in terms of development.
“Ambassador Kenichi, I admire that vision and passion displayed during your service here in Solomon Islands,” Hou said.
In his remarks, Kimiya said he had been working as the Ambassador to Solomon Islands for four years and in the course of their (his family) living they have received considerable support and cordial friendship from many country men and women.
“Hence My wife and I would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who have extended to us their valuable support and close relationship.
“Let us all swear out determination for making better world of peace unity and friendship towards the future because nothing is more precious than life love and nothing is more valuable than peace and freedom,” he said.
In delivering his farewelled address, he highlighted developments through projects in terms of the bilateral relationship between Solomon Islands and Japan.
Kimiya began his services to Melanesian in Papua New Guinea and was later posted to the Embassy in Honiara where he spent four years in service for his country and to the people of Solomon Islands.
He and his family will leave for Japan by the end of this month.
