Solomon Islands Opposition backs government’s bid to host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara
Solomon Islands’ Opposition has voiced its support for the government’s plan to host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara, expressing confidence in Prime Minister and foreign minister as they prepare to welcome regional leaders next month. During a motion of special adjournment in Parliament, Opposition Leader Matthew Wale congratulated the government and wished the Prime Minister and the foreign minister success in hosting the summit. He noted that the region has been generous to the Solomon Islands and that hosting the gathering would be an appropriate way to show appreciation, while also highlighting the opportunity to meet and connect with Pacific partners.
Opposition MP and former deputy Prime Minister John Maneniaru added his congratulations to the Prime Minister and government, saying he trusts the Prime Minister to lead discussions on behalf of the country at the summit. He urged Solomon Islanders to welcome the visiting leaders with pride and respect, inviting everyone to “make them feel at home and enjoy our happy isles.” Former Prime Minister and Central Honiara MP Gordon Darcy Lilo also encouraged the Prime Minister to host the forum well, reminding the country that the region has stood by the Solomon Islands through difficult times and that it is time to show appreciation. Lilo extended well wishes to the Prime Minister and the government.
Context and preparations for the forum
The forthcoming Leaders Meeting in Honiara is the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting and marks a significant milestone as the Solomon Islands hosts once again. The event is set to take place in September, with dates announced as part of ongoing preparations. This forum will bring together Pacific leaders to address critical regional issues, including climate resilience, security, and unity amid changing regional dynamics.
The Forum’s preparations are progressing under the leadership of the Solomon Islands government, with a national taskforce coordinating logistics, security, and public engagement. In addition to the high-level discussions, leaders will participate in bilateral engagements, cultural showcases, and other activities designed to strengthen intra-Pacific cooperation and regional resilience.
Theme, logo, and broader priorities
This year’s discussions are coupled with a strong thematic focus. The forum theme, “Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent,” emphasizes unity and practical action in tackling climate, ocean governance, digital transformation, and economic recovery. A national logo design competition was held, attracting 45 entries, with the winning design created by Philip Tepuika and highlighted during a ceremony celebrating the theme and branding of the summit.
The Solomon Islands’ leadership has stressed that tangible outcomes and concrete commitments must emerge from the Leaders Meeting, rather than mere statements. The gathering is also framed as an opportunity to showcase the country’s cultural heritage and regional solidarity, reaffirming the Pacific’s shared priorities in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment.
Positive outlook and added value
Support from the Opposition underscores broad domestic consensus on hosting the forum, underscoring the view that regional collaboration is essential for the Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific. The event is presented not only as a diplomatic milestone but as a chance to accelerate regional projects, strengthen ties with neighbors, and demonstrate resilience in the face of climate and security challenges. The forum’s outcomes are anticipated to reinforce unity, spur concrete regional initiatives, and bolster sustainable development across Pacific nations.
Summary
The Solomon Islands Opposition has publicly endorsed the government’s plan to host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara, praising the leadership and reaffirming commitment to regional unity. The 54th Leaders Meeting, set for September, will be guided by the theme Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent, with preparations led by a national taskforce and a competitive branding process that culminated in a winning logo by Philip Tepuika. The event is framed as a milestone in Pacific solidarity, with a focus on delivering concrete regional action and showcasing Solomon Islands’ culture and leadership on the regional stage. Positive momentum suggests a constructive path toward strengthened cooperation and resilience across the Blue Pacific.
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