The Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has commended scientists and government employees who participated in the National Geographic Pristine Seas-led expedition.

The expedition resulted in the discovery of the world’s largest coral at the Three Sisters Islands in Makira-Ulawa Province.

According to the Pristine Seas scientists, after discovering the coral, they sent its measurements to colleagues around the world to confirm its status as the largest coral ever found.

The scientists stated that the coral was confirmed to be the largest in the world.

In his address, the Prime Minister praised the government employees who participated in the expedition.

“…I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the pristine seas team and the government officers joining the expedition,” Prime Minister Manele stated.

He acknowledged the dedication, skill, and knowledge of all parties involved, which contributed to the success of the one-month expedition.

The PM also acknowledged the local guides and communities for their indigenous knowledge and hospitality, which greatly contributed to the success of the expedition.

Referring to the expedition as a model for future similar undertakings, Prime Minister Manele stated, “we would like to see this as a condition for the clearance of all future scientific expeditions to the Solomon Islands.”

This expedition is a government-led priority through the Ocean 12 governance structure.

The partnership with pristine seas is focused on acquiring vital marine biodiversity data to strengthen the nation’s ocean science capacity to improve conservation strategies, and enhance sustainable management of our marine resources.

Photo caption: Prime Minister Manele receives a gift (the photo of the largest coral in the world) from Molly Timmers, the lead scientist of the expedition