The Solomon Islands High Commissioner to the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Mr Joseph Maáhanua, presented his credentials to the Fiji President, His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Maivali Katonivere on Wednesday, 1st December 2021 at the State House, Suva.
During the ceremony, High Commissioner Maáhanua conveyed greetings from the Government of Solomon Islands and sincerely thanked the President of the Republic of Fiji for accepting his credential. He also shared with President Ratu Katonivere the historical link and connection between Solomon Islands and Fiji through people- to- people contact and the early work of Fiji missionaries in the country. High Commissioner Ma’ahanua further acknowledge the support provided by Fiji over the years, in particular during the Second World War (WWII) and the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
In response, the President of Fiji reaffirmed the long-standing relationship and close friendship between both countries and reassured Fiji’s support to the government and people of Solomon Islands during these challenging times. “As a regional brother, Fiji will continue to support a close friend like Solomon Islands”, stated President Katonivere.
The President congratulated the High Commissioner on his appointment and wish him well during his tenure in office.
High Commissioner Ma’ahanua has worked for 30 years in foreign affairs where he served in different capacities and roles. He used to serve as the Ambassador to the European Union (EU), Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands, and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Deputy Secretary and prior to his posting to Fiji, he served as the Trade Commissioner.
High Commissioner Ma’ahanua looks forward to strengthen and further enhance the bilateral relations and cooperation with Fiji during his posting.
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