THE Prime Minister of Solomon Islands will arrive in Port Moresby on Monday to reaffirm his government’s commitment and appreciation for PNG’s support.
It will be Dr Derek Sikua’s first overseas engagement since replacing Manasseh Sogavare as prime minister last month.
He will be accompanied by foreign affairs minister William Haomaie during the one-day visit, Solomon Islands high commissioner Bernard Bata’anisia said yesterday.
He said Dr Sikua would formally apologise to Sir Michael Somare over certain actions of Mr Sogavare, in particular over the Julian Moti issue.
He said the fact that Dr Sikua had chosen to visit PNG first, indicated the importance of the bilateral relationship.
Dr Sikua will leave for Australia the next day before heading for New Zealand.
Dr Bata’anisia said: “PNG is an important neighbour to the Solomon Islands and Dr Sikua would like to work closely with the Somare Government. His visit here is to reaffirm Solomon Islands’ commitment and support to PNG.”
He said bilateral issues related to Ramsi and technical and education issues would be discussed.
Mr Bata’anisia also confirmed that the final designs of the Solomon Islands chancery had been completed and would be submitted to the PNG Building Board next month for approval.
Construction is expected to start shortly after and be completed next year.