Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso has reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso Government's commitment to support the Solomon Islands, urging the country’s Prime Minister-elect to finalize pending mutual agreements. Hand-delivering a congratulatory letter from Prime Minister James Marape to the new Solomon Islands Prime Minister on Friday, May 3, at the Government Office in Honiara, Deputy Prime Minister Rosso also extended his personal congratulations to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele. "Prime Minister Manele, congratulations on your election into office as the 13th Prime Minister of the 12th Parliament of the Solomon Islands.” “On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea - Congratulations to you, the Ownership, Unity and Responsibility Party and your coalition, your family, and the people of the Solomon Islands.” "I extend my congratulations also to the people of the Hograno/Kia/Havulei Constituency, and the people of Isabel Province, for your instalment as the first Solomon Islands Prime Minister from your province." DPM Rosso also emphasized the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two nations since July 1978, reiterating PNG’s dedication to maintaining the strong relationship that persists to this day. "As expressed by Prime Minister Marape, our relations are firmly grounded in our bond - and by our word - Papua New Guinea will always look out for the Solomon Islands.” “Papua New Guinea stands ready to assist and support the Solomon Islands." DPM Rosso said much had been achieved between both countries over recent times, and that the Marape-Rosso Government remains committed to having all outstanding mutual agreements signed. These include the Basic Agreement between both Governments on Border Arrangements; a Treaty of Sovereignty on Maritime and Seabed Boundaries; an Agreement between both Governments on the Administration of Special Areas; and an MOU on Combined Surveillance and Common Marine Border. He also noted Papua New Guinea’s technical support through the Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority (ICSA) to the Solomon Islands Immigration Division with its ongoing capacity-building work, and Border Management Systems (BMS). This included assistance in the entry and exit of participants during the recent 2023 Pacific Games. DPM Rosso also reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's commitment to continue to consult and assist the Solomon Islands with the development and incorporation of its land management and administrative systems. Other arrangements include a progressive MOU on Tertiary Education Cooperation, and MOUs on Bio-Security Customs, and Police Cooperation on general policing which are currently under review, as well as the mooted establishment of a joint Business Council, among other pending cooperation arrangements. Deputy Prime Minister Rosso also took the opportunity to recognize and thank the incumbent’s predecessor Manasseh Sogavare for his strong leadership over his recent term, and for entrusting the leadership nominee to a leader with high-calibre as Prime Minister Manele. "I convey to you (Prime Minister Manele) our best wishes as you take Office, to establish Government and begin your work as leader of the Solomon Islands.”