PNG, SI agree to maintain dialogue

National

DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Justice and Attorney-General Steven Davis met the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare with his delegation and discussed various issues of bilateral, sub-regional and regional importance on Tuesday as they transited through Papua New Guinea to Beijing, China.
Davis and Sogavare noted the progress of the upcoming Bougainville Referendum and the PNG Government’s desire to have the referendum take place in accordance with our Melanesian values of peace and Christian principles.
Davis commended Solomon Islands for strengthening their relations with China.
He reiterated PNG’s support to share its experience with its Melanesian neighbour in its 44 years of diplomatic relations with China and PNG’s recognition of the ‘One Child Policy’.
Sogavare said he appreciated Davis and the PNG Government for the warm reception that was accorded to him and his delegation.
Both leaders agreed to maintain dialogue on important issues of common interest.