PRIME Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele MP had a successful bilateral meeting with his Papua New Guinea counterpart, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape MP, at the margins of the Honiara Summit 2025.
The bilateral meeting provided a key opportunity for discussions to further strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
Prime Minister Manele took the opportunity to convey his heartfelt condolences to Prime Minister Marape and the people of Papua New Guinea following the recent passing of former Prime Minister Sir Julius Chan.
Prime Minister Manele expressed deep respect to the late leader’s legacy and the significant contributions he made to the development of PNG.
Reaffirming the strong historical and cultural ties between Solomon Islands and PNG, Prime Minister Manele emphasized that these bonds predate colonial borders, underscoring the deep connections between the two nations.
In light of the close and dynamic relationship between the Melanesian powerhouse,Prime Minister Manele personally conveyed to Prime Minister Marape, his acceptance of PNG’s invitation for him to participate in PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations in Port Moresby on the 16th of September.
He reassured Prime Minister Marape of Solomon Islands’ full respect for PNG’s sovereignty and reiterated the country’s position of non-interference in the ongoing developments regarding Bougainville’s political future.
Prime Minister Manele also expressed Solomon Islands’ appreciation for PNG’s consistent support over the years.
PNG Prime Minister Hon. James Marape took the opportunity to thank Prime Minister Manele for confirming his participation at the PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebration September this year adding, it means a lot to the people of Papua New Guinea.
The PNG Prime Minister appreciates Solomon Islands hosting more than 50 PNG companies in Solomon Islands, with key investments in sectors such as hospitality, banking, telecommunications, and agriculture.
PM Marape announced an assistance of 5 million kina to support Solomon Islands host the Pacific Islands Forum this year.
PNG is also going to have state-of-the-art cancer, heart and kidney facilities.
He encouraged SI referral patients to use these facilities and they will only pay the same prices as PNG citizens. In addition, PNG will look into providing SIG budget support from 2026 -2030 as was done previously.
PM Manele acknowledged support by PM Marape and will have senior officials from both sides to pursue these issues.
They also agreed for cooperation talks between the two countries to be regularized with senior officials meeting annually and leaders meeting on a two-year basis.
