BY NED GAGAHE
Leader of the Opposition, Matthew Wale has expressed his support for Solomon Islands’ to participate in the Pacific Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (PIPA), describing the move as an important step for regional parliamentary collaboration.
Speaking in Parliament last week, the Opposition Leader Wale commended the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, Peter Kenilorea Jnr, for bringing the motion before the House.
He said the draft statutes for PIPA are clear and straightforward, allowing Solomon Islands to be part of the founding of this new regional parliamentary platform.
“This is a very good development in the regional collaborative platforms that we are part of,” he said, noting that being involved at the founding stage ensures the country is fully aligned with the objectives and values of PIPA.
The Opposition Leader highlighted the broader benefits of regional parliamentary cooperation, including opportunities for sharing ideas, learning lessons from other Pacific legislatures, and enhancing regional and international advocacy for parliamentary roles.
He noted that while most international engagements are carried out by the Executive Government, it is equally important for parliaments to collaborate across the region.
“The motion is straightforward, and it would be good for you, Mr. Speaker, to go with the mandate of the House and sign up for the founding statutes.
“We will then look at how the Parliament can progress from there,” he said.
The statement reinforces cross-party support in Parliament for Solomon Islands’ active participation in PIPA, which aims to strengthen inter-parliamentary dialogue, good governance, human rights, and sustainable development across the Pacific.
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