Solomon Islands and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam have taken a significant step in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations following the formal appointment of Mr. Vo Viet Cuong as Viet Nam’s Honorary Consul to Solomon Islands.
The appointment was officially announced during a ceremony held in Honiara on Monday, 13 October 2026, where Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela, congratulated Mr. Cuong on behalf of the Government of Solomon Islands.
Minister Houenipwela said the appointment reflects the growing partnership between the two countries and demonstrates a shared commitment to expanding cooperation across trade, investment, development, and people-to-people exchanges.
He described the appointment as an important milestone in bilateral relations, noting that Solomon Islands and Viet Nam have maintained diplomatic ties since 1996. The new role is expected to create fresh opportunities for collaboration in a range of sectors.
Mr. Cuong, who has lived and worked in Solomon Islands for many years, was recognised for his contribution to the local community, entrepreneurial achievements, and leadership in establishing the Solomon Islands Vietnamese Association. His extensive connections within government, the private sector, and the wider community are expected to help foster stronger engagement between the two nations.
The establishment of the Honorary Consul office in Honiara will provide a direct point of contact for Vietnamese nationals living in Solomon Islands while supporting closer diplomatic, cultural, and economic cooperation.
Solomon Islands has identified several priority areas for future collaboration with Viet Nam, including agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries, renewable energy, trade facilitation, investment, training, capacity building, and cultural exchanges.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade stated it looks forward to working closely with Mr. Cuong and the Honorary Consul office to advance mutually beneficial partnerships and further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Solomon Islands and Viet Nam.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET).
