12 December 2014
Australia congratulates Prime Minister Sogavare
Australian High Commissioner Andrew Byrne has congratulated Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare on his election, and pledged to work closely with his government.
High Commissioner Byrne met Prime Minister Sogavare today to discuss the two countries’ shared priorities.
“I offered my warm congratulations to Prime Minister Sogavare,” said High Commissioner Byrne.
“Prime Minister Sogavare has been a good friend to me since I arrived in Solomon Islands, offering me a very warm welcome to this country.
“We have already had several conversations this year about the opportunities and challenges before Solomon Islands.
“I now look forward to working closely with Prime Minister Sogavare and his government on those issues,” said High Commissioner Byrne.
High Commissioner Byrne said that Australia’s commitment to Solomon Islands was enduring.
“Prime Minister Sogavare and I have a shared commitment to peace and prosperity in Solomon Islands.
“Prime Minister Abbott has also called Prime Minister Sogavare to congratulate him and assure him of Australia’s support.
“I wish Prime Minister Sogavare and his family well during this time of transition and change,” said High Commissioner Byrne.
High Commissioner Byrne also said that all Solomon Islanders should be proud of how well the democratic process in Solomon Islands had gone in the last month.
“Prime Minister Sogavare’s election concludes an exciting time for Solomon Islands. I would like to congratulate all Solomon Islanders on the role they played during this time, to ensure a peaceful, successful democratic process,” said High Commissioner Byrne.