Solomon Islands Reaffirms Deepening Ties with Japan at Celebration of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito’s Birthday

The Government of Solomon Islands has conveyed its warmest congratulations and profound respect to His Majesty Naruhito on the auspicious occasion of his 66th birthday, reaffirming the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Solomon Islands and Japan.

Speaking at the National Day Reception hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Honiara last night, Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Hon. Wayne Ghemu, conveyed heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Government and people of Solomon Islands to the Emperor and the people of Japan.

Minister Ghemu paid tribute to His Majesty’s leadership, describing Japan under his reign as a nation that exemplifies peace, resilience, and international cooperation- values that resonate deeply across the Pacific.

Solomon Islands and Japan established diplomatic relations on 1 September 1978. Since then, the partnership has grown into one defined by mutual respect and tangible development cooperation. As Solomon Islands works toward graduating from Least Developed Country status by 2027, Japan remains one of its most trusted and steadfast bilateral partners.

Over the decades, Japan’s assistance has played a visible and transformative role in the country’s development. Support for key infrastructure projects including the international airport, expansion of the international seaport, and the Kukum Highway Phase 2 has strengthened connectivity and economic opportunity. Investments in people have been equally significant, with the establishment of the Fisheries Research Center at Solomon Islands National University and the Human Resource Development Center helping to build local capacity.

This year, cooperation has expanded into waste management and sustainable forest resource management, reinforcing both nations shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

“These contributions have had a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of Solomon Islanders and have reinforced Japan’s reputation as a reliable and trusted friend,” Minister Ghemu said.

Beyond bilateral ties, Solomon Islands continues to benefit from Japan’s regional engagement through the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM), an “All Japan” approach that supports sustainable development, climate action, disaster resilience, ocean management, and people-to-people exchanges across the Pacific.

Minister Ghemu emphasized that both countries remain aligned in advancing a just and peaceful international order grounded in international law and multilateral cooperation. Together, Solomon Islands and Japan are working toward a resilient, climate-ready Pacific and a future built on partnership.

The Minister also extended warm congratulations to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her recent re-election, expressing confidence in her continued leadership as Japan advances its national vision and global engagement.

He further acknowledged His Excellency Keiichi Hagiuchi, Ambassador of Japan to Solomon Islands, noting that the celebration was not only a tribute to His Majesty but also a reaffirmation of the strong and growing partnership between the two nations.

Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Hon. Wayne Ghemu.

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