Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele today welcomed the first-ever Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Solomon Islands, Anthony Gill, during a courtesy visit at the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Gill briefed the Prime Minister on preparations for the official opening of ADB’s Solomon Islands office next Tuesday, which will be officiated by the ADB President, who is also expected to undertake several visits while in Honiara.
Manele highlighted ADB’s 53-year partnership with Solomon Islands and stressed the importance of collaboration with all development partners, including the World Bank. He also updated Gill on the government’s policy framework based on four pillars: economic transformation and growth, national unity and stability, infrastructure development and service delivery, and human capital development.
The Prime Minister noted upcoming national milestones, including graduation from Least Developed Country status in 2027 and the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary in 2028, reiterating that infrastructure remains a top national priority.
Gill reaffirmed ADB’s commitment to supporting the government’s vision and priorities, including private sector development and sustainable growth.
Manele thanked Gill for the visit and expressed confidence that ADB’s presence in Honiara will strengthen the partnership and deliver tangible benefits to the people of Solomon Islands.
