The Solomon Islands Government on Tuesday expresses profound gratitude to the government and good people of Taiwan for the deep and friendly relations and cooperation over the last thirty six years.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade made the statement yesterday as the Solomon Islands Government downgraded its relations with Taipei following Monday’s cabinet endorsement to recognise Beijing after reviewing its foreign relations policy.
Minister Manele said the Solomon Islands government would like to thank Taiwan for the agricultural, education, health and rural development support rendered to the children and people of Solomon Islands over the last 36 years.
“On that note we acknowledge the decision of the government of Taiwan to close its Embassy in Honiara today (yesterday) and assure all remaining Taiwanese officials of my Ministry’s cooperation in ensuring smooth transitional arrangements are in place,” Mr Manele said.
The Government further assures the public during the transition period that it will adhere to the principles of the Vienna Convention.
In spite of the latest change in foreign policy, the Solomon Islands government continues to encourage trade and investments from Taiwan into the country.
“The government also wish to assure all parents of students studying in Taiwan that reports from our Embassy in Taipei has confirmed that all our students are well looked after and the government is looking at their welfare with a serious eye,” the statement said.
Solomon Islands decided to recognize the one China policy and will proceed to formalize diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and establish a bilateral cooperation framework to immediately address areas previously supported by Taiwan.
The decision taken by Solomon Islands is in compliance with the United Nations Resolution 2758 and done within the spirit and purpose of the UN Charter.
Minister Manele assures the Solomon Islands public that the government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is managing all relations with care and respect.
– Govt Com Unit
