UN Resident Coordinator to Solomon Islands, Dirk Wagener, presents credentials on Inaugural Mission to Solomon Islands

The new UN Resident Coordinator to Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu, Mr. Dirk Wagener, concluded his inaugural mission to Solomon Islands last week.

During this milestone visit, Mr. Wagener presented his credentials to the Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare, signifying the UN's commitment to strengthening its partnership with the people and government of Solomon Islands.

The presentation of credentials was a significant moment, reaffirming the UN's dedication to collaborating closely with the Solomon Islands on various important initiatives, including peacebuilding and social cohesion.

In addition, Mr. Wagener engaged with Solomon Islands Government Ministers, development partners, civil society, UN agency staff, and visited UN project sites in Honiara, including the Honiara Municipal Market, where he met with women market vendors.

These meetings with key stakeholders were an opportunity to highlight areas of mutual interest and to identify opportunities for collaboration. These discussions further underscored the UN's commitment to supporting the development goals and aspirations of the Solomon Islands.

Mr. Wagener said "The Solomon Islands is a vital partner for the United Nations, and we are committed to working closely with the government and people of this nation. Our discussions during this visit have been very productive, and we are excited about the opportunities for enhancing our cooperation in the future.

“The UN remains dedicated to fostering sustainable development, peace, and prosperity in the Solomon Islands, and this inaugural mission signifies the beginning of an even more robust partnership,” he added.

Last year, the Solomon Islands Government and the UN jointly signed the five-year Pacific Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-2027, aligned to the national development priorities of Solomon Islands, and this mission is an important step in ensuring the needs of Solomon Islands, as identified by the government, are supported by the UN.

ENDS