Minister Houenipwela Receives Courtesy Visit from Philippines Ambassador

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela, received a courtesy visit from the Ambassador of the Philippines to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Edgar Tomas Q. Auxilian, in Honiara on 27 May 2026.

Minister Houenipwela welcomed the visit as an opportunity to further strengthen the friendly relations and cooperation between Solomon Islands and the Philippines. He reaffirmed the importance of continued diplomatic engagement and collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

During the meeting, Minister Houenipwela acknowledged the ongoing discussions on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Health Cooperation between the two countries and noted with appreciation that the proposed agreement is nearing the final stages of internal review and clearance processes.

The Minister also acknowledged the growing Filipino community in Solomon Islands and commended their positive contributions to local communities and the economy, which continue to strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Minister Houenipwela expressed confidence that relations between Solomon Islands and the Philippines will continue to grow from strength to strength through sustained dialogue and enhanced cooperation at all levels.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Rick Houenipwela received a courtesy visit from the Ambassador of the Philippines to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Edgar Tomas Q. Auxilian