BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
LEADERS of Western Provincial Government has acknowledged the Prime Ministers Office, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the local organising committee for bringing regional leaders to Noro.
Provincial Member for Ward 10, Freedom Tozaka and Provincial Member for Ward 16, Jeffrey Wickham delivered their acknowledgement during the Provincial Assembly Meeting last week.
In his Sine Die speech, Mr Tozaka said hosting such a prestigious regional event is a great honour and privilege for the people of Western province.
He said the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Retreat will be remembered as one of the most significant events in the history of the regional body, marking an important milestone for the province.
“As a province and people of this province, we are very happy to host all the high-level leaders in our province,” Tozaka stated.
He noted that while the day of the retreat was cloudy and rainy, the leaders had the opportunity to witness the province’s unique culture and traditional heritage, including the iconic Tomoko war canoe and other cultural performances.
“I’m sure the leaders saw the Tomoko and other activities. I also hope the leaders enjoyed their short stay in Western Province,” Tozaka added.
Former Special Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office now a Provincial Members for Ward 16, Jeffrey Wickham also acknowledged the Premier of Western Province and the Provincial Administration hosting the leader’s retreat.
“This is sort of things never happen so when you have all the prime ministers and presidents coming to Western Province is really a huge honour.
“I’m so glad that the Prime Minister’s Office and the organising committee has chosen Noro to be venue for the leaders retreat,” he said.
The 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting brought together heads of governments from across the Pacific region, with the retreat at Noro serving as a highlight of the week-long event hosted in Solomon Islands.
