The Government Services Integration Committee (GSIC) Secretariat met with the Ministry of Commerce Industries Labour and Immigration (MCILI) Officials on Friday 19 March to discuss their proposed work plan and activities for the upcoming Pacific Games 2023.
A Statement from the GSIC Secretariat in the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet stated that the Respective Heads of Immigration, Labour and Foreign Investment Divisions attended the meeting.
Also in the meeting were officials from the National Hosting Authority (NHA), Honiara City Council, and the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
The Statement stated that MCILI deals with Immigration and Visa issues, Work permits and Labour requirements, as well as Foreign Investment and Marketing.
“As Solomon Islands will receive thousands of visitors from the region for the Games, it is important that we have an effective and coordinated Visa arrangements and mechanisms in place, so that we could effectively manage the movement of people in and out of the country,” according to GSIC statement.
“During the meeting, Immigration officials discussed options for facilitating the arrivals and movements of VIPs and Games contingents in and out of the country, and to ensure smooth entry as well as complying with our immigration laws. This will also include deployment of work force and resources for the work.
Labour officials also briefed the meeting on requirements for work permit and residency should they be requested to assist.
The Foreign Investment Division also plans to host investment seminars for overseas visitors and local businesses on business opportunities in Solomon Islands”, according to GSIC statement.
“We are anticipating receiving thousands of visitors for the games, and will take the opportunity to showcase investment opportunities in the country,” according to GSIC statement.
It is important that early discussions with relevant and Responsible Authorities in MCILI be held so that we could have systems and mechanisms in place, come Pacific Games 2023.
Meanwhile, the GSIC Secretariat in the Office of the Prime Minister Cabinet noted the progress of work done to date by MCILI, and encouraged officials to continue on their work plan and commitment in undertaking the tasks and responsibilities assigned to them.
MCIL is part of the Cluster Groups where Ministries have been assigned to different functions and responsibilities to perform and support the Games Organizing Committee, the National Hosting Authority, and the Government to successfully deliver the Pacific Games in 2023.
GCU Press