Hou congratulates Australia
Quoting the Solomon Star newspaper – 29 January 2019
“SOLOMON Islands former Prime Minister has congratulated Australia on its 231st Australian Day Anniversary, recently.
“Mr Rick Hou was also part of the Australian Honiara based participants who celebrated the event, last week.
“Speaking at the ceremony, Hou highlighted all that Solomon Islands has benefited and enjoyed with Australia and wishes Australia a happy 231st day.
“Your Excellency, my Government and the people of Solomon Islands convey our sincere congratulations through you to the government and the people of Australia on this auspicious occasion as you celebrate the 231st Anniversary of Australia day,” he said.
“He added, the Australian Day celebration has become part of the annual calendar in Solomon Islands.
“It has also provided a platform where Solomon Islands also honours its’ friendship with Australia, the 12th largest economy in the world, and the largest donor to Solomon Islands.
“Our connection with Australia is culturally rich and ethnically rooted.
“We identify with Australia’s indigenous Melanesian populations in the Torres Strait.
“Hou said Solomon Islands also share a common history through the South Seas Islanders who have made Australia their home.
“I am sure the recent passage of the Dual Citizenship Act can further cement Solomon Islands relations with our Australian diaspora.
“We continue to remember those 8,000 plus Australian wantoks, Police Officers, soldiers and civilians, who came to Solomon Islands through RAMSI to help us in our time of need, many of whom continue to speak fondly of their time in the Happy Isles,” he added.”
Coyright @ 2019, Solomon Star News.
