BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Central Islands Premier, Kenneth Sagupari and officials from the province welcomed a delegation from China’s Hubei Province to Tulagi on Sunday, September 28, 2025.

The delegation was led by Zhu Ziaobin and this visit marks the first official meeting between the two provinces.

A statement published in the Central Island Province Forum stated that a historic Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed between the two provinces during the meeting.

The LOI outlines plans for future partnership between the two provinces.

In addition to the LOI, work is underway on a more detailed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to be signed at a later date.

“This visit is an important step in building a strong relationship between our provinces,” Sagupari said during the welcome ceremony.

Zhu responded by expressing Hubei Province’s interest in strengthening ties through cooperation in development, culture, and other areas.

During the meeting the two leaders exchanged gifts which were;

• Hubei Province donated sewing machines and cloth valued at SBD 100,000.
• Central Province presented traditional Bina artifacts, Solomon Islands flags, and lavalava.

According to the statement, the two provinces also shared official documents. Hubei provided an information booklet about its region, while Central Province handed over policy documents highlighting its development goals.

The delegation also visited the National Museum in Tulagi and the Hakama Research Centre in small Ngella to learn more about the province’s history and cultural heritage.

Premier Sagupari thanked the delegation and expressed appreciation for China’s ongoing support in the Solomon Islands.

He also extended warm greetings to the government and people of China on the occasion of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the sixth anniversary of diplomatic relations between Solomon Islands and China.

“This visit has opened a new chapter of cooperation and friendship between Hubei and Central Province,” Premier Sagupari said.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]