Statement from Mr. Tony Kagovai, President of the Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions (SICTU)

Honiara, Solomon Islands, September 15, 2025 – On behalf of the Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions (SICTU), I extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Honorable Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) for their exceptional execution of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara and Noro Town.

This landmark event has demonstrated our nation’s capacity for leadership and showcased our commitment to regional cooperation.

The successful hosting of the Forum under the theme “Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent,” addressed critical issues like climate change and economic resilience lived realities for our people. Prime Minister Manele’s exemplary leadership and the government’s strategic vision have positioned Solomon Islands as a key player in shaping the Pacific’s future.

The scale of this event required unprecedented coordination. The government’s ability to manage events across multiple locations from the capital Honiara to Noro Town demonstrated remarkable organizational capability.

Most importantly, we acknowledge the hundreds of workers both in public and private sector across hospitality, transportation, security, and communications whose dedication and professionalism ensured the Forum’s success. Your efforts have made the nation proud.

The forum provided a substantial boost to our local economy and created valuable employment opportunities. Beyond this, the exposure to international standards has enhanced our national professional capabilities. We encourage the government to build upon this by investing further in workforce development programs.

The forum’s focus aligns strongly with the GNUT government’s pillars of Economic Transformation, Unity, Infrastructure Development, and Human Capital Development.

We particularly welcome the emphasis on climate action, and the working people stand ready to support the implementation of outcomes that protect our ocean resources and promote climate resilient economies.

We also acknowledge the Prime Minister’s principled diplomatic leadership in ensuring Pacific voices remained at the center of Pacific discussions, strengthening regional sovereignty.

The Solomon Islands Council of Trade Unions reaffirms its commitment to partnership with the government in advancing national development priorities that benefit working people. We stand ready to support policies that create decent jobs and improve living standards.

The successful hosting of the Pacific Islands Forum represents a unifying achievement for our nation. SICTU congratulates Prime Minister Manele and the GNUT government on this exceptional demonstration of leadership.

Once again, we thank the workers and volunteers whose generosity, and hard work showcased the best of Solomon Islands to our Pacific family.

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[SICTU]