Prime Minister highlights tourism development and regional leadership role
Honiara, Solomon Islands, Wednesday 4 January 2026 – Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, MP, has highlighted tourism development and regional engagement as part of the Government’s early engagements for 2026.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Prime Minister referred to the opening of the upgraded Parangiju Mountain Lodge in Central Guadalcanal, supported through grant funding approved under the Government’s Budget Support Programme and administered by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The Prime Minister said the project reflects ongoing efforts to support tourism development as part of broader economic and private-sector activity, particularly where local operators, communities, and government are working together.
He said tourism remains one of the sectors with potential to contribute to employment, small business development, and community livelihoods, and that similar upgrades to the Raiders Hotel and the Pacific Crown Hotel establishment on Double Island in Central Province are expected to open soon.
At the regional level, the Prime Minister also confirmed his participation in the Pacific Islands Forum Troika meeting in Brisbane in his capacity as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum.
As Chair, the Prime Minister said Solomon Islands emphasised the importance of unity, dialogue, and consensus within the Forum, particularly at a time when the region continues to face shared challenges.
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