SOLOMON Islands and Saint Lucia have formally established diplomatic relations yesterday.
The signing of the Joint Communiqué to formalise the ties was done by the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of St Lucia, Allen Chastanet and the Solomon Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs & External Trade, Milner Tozaka, at the Permanent Mission/Embassy of Saint Lucia to the United Nations, in New York.
The establishment of diplomatic relations is part of SIDCCG’s Foreign Policy in expanding Solomon Island’s reach to the Caribbean and American region.
Minister Tozaka said both countries are already engaged actively through the United Nations, Small Islands Developing States (SIDS), Africa Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) and the Commonwealth.
However, this recent signing is expected to formalise diplomatic relationships between both countries.
Solomon Islands and St Lucia share common issues and challenges, as Small Islands developing states.
This was something both leaders have expressed and agree to assist and learn from each other.
“We share an interest in developing economies that are resilient with stand economic and environmental pressures. Therefore, formalizing of diplomatic relations also means, both countries can enhance collective effort in addressing Climate Change issues,” he said.
Both foreign ministers have also agreed to pursue opportunities particularly in the areas of tourism, transfer of knowledge, trade and culture and exchange.
–OPMC PRESS
