AFTER spending three weeks overseas engaging in a series of high level meetings in Europe and Pacific, Prime Minister (PMG) Jeremiah Manele has returned to the country on Wednesday.

He left the country on Wednesday 4 June where he first attended the UN Oceans Summit in Nice. 

He then traveled to the OPEC Fund Development Forum in Vienna, before traveling to the 23rd MSG Leaders’ Meeting in Suva early this week.

In Nice, PM Manele participated in the third United Nations Ocean Conference, which brought together global leaders to accelerate action on SDG 14 and address threats to ocean health. 

He held meetings with Pacific and international partners to highlight Solomon Islands’ ocean priorities and the need for stronger global support to Small Island Developing States.

In Vienna, PM Manele took part in the OPEC Fund Development Forum under the theme “A Transition that Empowers Our Tomorrow.” 

Discussions focused on climate finance, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. The Prime Minister met with OPEC Fund officials to explore opportunities for increased support to Solomon Islands, particularly in infrastructure, renewable energy, and resilience-building projects.

The final leg of the trip took the Prime Minister to Suva for the 23rd MSG Leaders’ Meeting hosted by Fiji. 

Leaders from member countries deliberated on regional cooperation, trade, security, and climate action under the theme “A Peaceful and Prosperous Melanesia.” 

Solomon Islands reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to the MSG and its role in promoting Melanesian unity and regional development.

Throughout the trip, PM Manele held bilateral meetings with fellow leaders and development partners, including with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in France.
Talks focused on enhancing cooperation in fisheries, development financing, and regional partnerships.