Norway’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands H.E. Paul Gulleik Larsen has presented his credentials to the Governor General, The Right Reverend David Vunagi to formalise his appointment at Government House today.
Ambassador Larsen was appointed by his Majesty King Harald V of Norway as a non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary with full powers to represent Norway in Solomon Islands.
Ambassador Larsen commended Solomon Islands for its efforts in promoting global peace which the Government of Norway has pledged to further promote together with climate change and sustainable development if elected to the UN Security Council next year.
“Inclusive development and peace building is fundamental to sustaining peace and we recognise that this is a huge challenge in a pluralistic nation like Solomon Islands and I would like to commend Solomon Islands for your efforts in this regard,” he said.
The Norwegian envoy also highlighted that his Government has a strong and enduring commitment to mitigate and assist adaptation to climate change. Norway is one of the largest contributors to the Green Climate Fund with $100 million each year.
He said Norway is pleased to see South Pacific States like Solomon Islands benefiting from concrete infrastructure projects such as the Tina Hydropower Development project.
The Governor General, The Right Reverend David Vunagi, congratulated Ambassador Larsen on his appointment and expressed support towards the endeavors of the Government and People of Norway in promoting peace, climate change and sustainable development.
“I would like to acknowledge and express support towards the promotion of peace, security, welfare and sustainable development that Solomon Islands and Norway have in common. Indeed our two countries could not be further apart geographically, but the common values highlighted paved the way for Norway and Solomon Islands to establish diplomatic relations,” Reverend Vunagi said.
He added that the implementation of the Global Sustainable Development Goals is a relevant issue as much as it is and Norway’s contribution to the Green Climate Fund is a step in the right direction for which Solomon Islands truly values.
The Governor General thanked Norway for noting the efforts of Solomon Islands made in enhancing inclusive development and peace building in the country.
“We are conscious of the importance of this issue and our focus is to continue to work on improving the livelihood and security of our people. The journey is challenging but we hope to achieve lasting peace for the country,” he said.
Ambassador Larsen is expected to meet with Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and other Ministers during his visit to Honiara this week.
PR Supplied by Government Communication Unit