𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐍𝐆 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝟒𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲

The Solomon Islands High Commission in Port Moresby joined Solomon Islands communities in Port Moresby and Buka to commemorate the 47th Independence Anniversary of the Solomon Islands.

In the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, His Excellency William Soaki, Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, was the Chief Guest at the celebrations hosted by the Solomon Islands community in Buka on Sunday, 6 July 2024.

The event brought together Solomon Islands workers, families, and friends in a vibrant display of unity, echoing this year’s national theme: “Unity and Stability for Transformation and Prosperity.”

In his official address, High Commissioner Soaki emphasized the close ties between Bougainville and the Western and Choiseul Provinces of Solomon Islands, highlighting their shared cultural values and traditions.

“The waters between us do not divide us—they connect us,” he remarked.
He commended the Solomon Islands community in Buka for proudly representing the nation and showcasing its culture and identity.

The High Commissioner also encouraged community members to continue upholding and respecting the laws of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG).

High Commissioner Soaki further stated that Solomon Islands respects Papua New Guinea’s sovereignty and is closely following developments regarding Bougainville’s political future.

Representing the President of the ABG at the event was the Member for Hagogohe Constituency, Hon. Robert Hamal Sawa, who acknowledged the enduring relationship between Bougainville and Solomon Islands. ABG Member for Terra Constituency, Hon. Robin Wilson, also addressed the gathering, expressing heartfelt gratitude for Solomon Islands’ support during the Bougainville Crisis.

The celebrations continued on Monday, 7 July, with the High Commissioner attending a dawn service and breakfast hosted by the Solomon Islands community in Buka.

Meanwhile, in Port Moresby, the 47th Independence Anniversary was celebrated on Sunday, 6 July, at the PNGDF Murray Barracks. The event brought together dignitaries, friends, and members of the Solomon Islands community.

Representing the High Commission was Second Secretary Ms. Gwen Halemaku.
The celebration was graced by the presence of the Governor of the National Capital District, Hon. Powes Parkop, and former Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Emmy Sogavare.

In his keynote address, Governor Parkop extended heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of Solomon Islands. He reflected on the nation’s journey through both adversity and achievement, stating:

“That is the story of Solomon Islands—a story to understand, learn from, and, importantly, to celebrate as we mark 47 years of independence.”

He reaffirmed the strong Melanesian bond between Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands and pledged continued support for regional unity, development, and cultural exchange.

Second Secretary Halemaku, in her remarks, expressed deep appreciation for Papua New Guinea’s ongoing support, especially during times of challenge. She acknowledged the dedication of the Solomon Islands–PNG community and emphasized:

“Our strength lies in unity, resilience, and a shared vision for the transformation and stability of our country.”

She also paid tribute to the founding fathers of Solomon Islands and all those who continue to work for the nation’s progress.

Both celebrations in Buka and Port Moresby featured cultural performances and traditional music, showcasing the richness of Melanesian heritage and the enduring bonds between the peoples of Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.

End///

—𝐌𝐅𝐀𝐄𝐓 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄