BY NED GAGAHE
China and Solomon Islands on Friday, September 26, 2025, marked six years of formal diplomatic relations with strong messages of friendship, mutual respect, and visible development progress across the islands.
Speaking during the 76th Anniversary celebration of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Cai Weiming, hailed the six-year journey as one that has delivered “sustainable and substantial progress” for both countries.
The event was attended by high-level dignitaries, including Acting Prime Minister Bradley Tovosia, government ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, and members of the Chinese community.
“Over the past six years, China and Solomon Islands have achieved real, tangible cooperation. Our bilateral relations have flourished under a comprehensive strategic partnership,” Ambassador Weiming said.
Since the switch in 2019, Solomon Islands has seen an unprecedented wave of development support from China. Projects delivered include:
- National Stadium & Games Village (hosted Pacific Games 2023)
- New hospital and medical facilities at NRH
- Roads, bridges, and power stations in multiple provinces
- Communication towers in Honiara and outer islands
- School dormitories and classrooms
Ambassador Weiming said Chinese companies, through a mix of aid, concessional loans, and contracts, have delivered high-quality infrastructure in almost all nine provinces.
“They don’t just build infrastructure—they help create jobs, share knowledge and improve local lives,” he said.
The cooperation has also extended beyond infrastructure.
Ambassador Weiming said in the health sector, the China Medical Team based at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) has treated over 50,000 patients, conducted surgeries, and most recently, carried out Solomon Islands’ first coronary stent operation—a groundbreaking moment for local healthcare.
He said more than 10,000 Solomon Islanders, especially experts and specialists, have undertaken training programmes in China.
Around 200 Solomon students are currently pursuing degrees on full scholarships at Chinese universities.
“Just today, nine Solomon doctors and nurses graduated from Guizhou University,” Ambassador Weiming proudly announced.
He said China is now Solomon Islands’ largest trading partner.
The ambassador said since 2019, total bilateral trade has exceeded US$3.5 billion, with Solomon Islands exports topping US$2.3 billion, due to zero tariffs on SI products entering China.
“These are tangible benefits that go directly to the people,” he said.
Ambassador Weiming emphasised that China’s approach is built on full respect for Solomon Islands’ sovereignty, culture, and development priorities.
“We always respect your decisions, your traditions, and your path forward.
“China and Solomon Islands are working together to build a community with a shared future in the new era,” he said.
Ambassador Weiming ended his speech with a toast for the friendship between the two countries.
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