PRIME Minister Rick Houenipwela has assured the Melanesia Spearhead Group of Solomon Islands’ support to Papua New Guinea as the new chair of MSG.
In his statement at the plenary meeting last week, Prime Minister Houenipwela said his Government understands the challenges faced by the organisation but he is optimistic that the current chair will take MSG to new heights in its endeavours in political, cultural, social, trade and economic cooperation with his able leadership.
“Allow me to reiterate my government’s confidence and support to the Office of the Chair of the MSG. We will continue to offer our unwavering support to the chair and secretariat,” the Prime Minister told leaders at the plenary meeting.
The Prime Minister said his Government understands the issues affecting the MSG sub-region and acknowledge that it must be approached and dealt with in a delicate, respectable and collaborative manner.
“This is the fundamental principle laid down by our Melanesian forefathers and that is to live in peace, harmony and prosperity. My government will be focusing on enhancing cooperation on all issues with all members of MSG,” he said.
The Prime Minister also congratulated Papua New Guinea for being given the honour to host the upcoming APEC meeting in November.
He said it is an opportunity for PNG and other countries to showcase themselves to the world.
“We wish the government and the people of Papua New Guinea a successful outcome in promoting our region,” he said.
The Prime Minister also assured his fellow MSG leaders of his Government’s support to the MSG sub-regional organisation.
“We will remain committed to advance the goals of the MSG,” he said.
Prime Minister Houenipwela also took the opportunity to congratulate Fiji for taking the leadership at COP23.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has also joined the MSG chair and PNG Prime Minister Peter O’Neil in conveying and expressing sincere sympathies to the people of the Kingdom of Tonga following the recent Cyclone Gita that devastated their country.
–OPMC PRESS
