HONIARA, 08 July 2025 (TATOLI) – A Timor-Leste delegation, led by Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Francisco Monteiro, took part in the Solomon Islands’ 47th Independence Day celebration at the National Stadium in Honiara on Monday, 7 July.
Minister Monteiro praised the Solomon Islands for its resilience and commitment to peace after experiencing past internal conflicts.
“I see many positive aspects in their event because, although Solomon Islands faced various challenges in the past that led to conflicts, the government and society as a whole understand that conflict is harmful and does not benefit the nation or its people,” Monteiro told TATOLI at the Heritage Hotel on Tuesday.
He emphasized that the strong presence of politicians, government officials, and the public during the event demonstrated national unity and a shared commitment to stability.
“We clearly saw the full participation of the people, politicians, and Heads of Government gathered at the stadium to commemorate with the spirit of unity and stability to advance their country. From our involvement, I observe many positive lessons for countries like ours that have also undergone post-conflict processes,” he said.
g7+ Secretary General Helder da Costa, also part of the delegation, highlighted the historic ties and development similarities between Timor-Leste and Solomon Islands.
“Solomon Islands celebrates its 47th independence anniversary, while Timor-Leste will mark its 50th proclamation anniversary next year. This small difference in time means their development follows its own rhythm and phases according to their context,” said da Costa. “From Timor-Leste, we convey our sincere congratulations and bring greetings from the Chair of the g7+, Sierra Leone.”
He reminded the Timorese people that while their government has made significant progress, there is still room for improvement. However, he stressed the importance of recognizing national achievements and learning from the experiences of other countries.
“As a Timorese, I can say we are neither worse nor better than them. Our government has done a lot, although shortcomings remain. We should be grateful for the collective efforts made, because other countries face greater challenges. Our leaders, despite political differences, share the common aspiration to bring good development to the people,” he added.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, during the official celebration, urged citizens to use the anniversary as a moment of reflection on the country’s progress since gaining independence.
He acknowledged the role of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) in navigating national challenges and steering development.
“What we do today to prepare for the future is vital. Innovation and collaboration are key to transforming our nation into a better place for present and future generations,” said Manele.
The GNUT development agenda is built on four key pillars: Unity and Stability, Economic Transformation, Infrastructure Development, and Human Capital Development.
“Our objective is to drive socio-economic transformation, boost the economy, and foster innovation by unlocking the full potential of our country’s resources and talents,” the Prime Minister stated.
The event was held under the theme “Unity and Stability for Transformation and Prosperity”, underscoring the country’s aspirations for inclusive progress.
“Today, we stand united, embracing our diverse cultures and heritage, and striving for a future where progress, prosperity, and equality reach all Solomon Islanders,” Manele said.
During the celebrations, the Timor-Leste delegation witnessed cultural performances that showcased the Solomon Islands’ rich diversity, bringing together various ethnic groups and traditions.
In addition to the anniversary ceremony, the Timorese delegation is also participating in a g7+ experience-sharing mission in Honiara, from 7 to 11 July. The mission, led by Minister Monteiro, focuses on cooperation in the governance of natural resources, particularly oil and gas.
This visit is part of the g7+ fragile-to-fragile (F2F) cooperation program, which promotes solidarity through mutual learning among member states.
Key agenda items include sharing governance experiences in the extractives sector, enhancing bilateral ministerial ties, and exploring future collaboration through training, knowledge exchange, and technical capacity-building.
The delegation includes representatives from Timor-Leste’s key institutions such as the National Minerals Authority (ANM), Timor GAP, Murak Rai Timor, the Geosciences Institute, and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), with the g7+ Secretariat from Dili also in attendance.
Solomon Islands, a founding member of the g7+, continues to play an active role in the network. Its economy is primarily based on agriculture, fisheries, and resource extraction, including gold and nickel. The country is also set to take a leading role within the g7+, with Foreign Minister Peter Shanel Agovaka appointed as the incoming g7+ President for the 2026–2028 term.
Timor-Leste’s participation in the mission reflects its commitment to strengthening development diplomacy and deepening cooperation with fellow fragile states in the Pacific region.
Journalist: Cidalia Fátima
Editor: Filomeno Martins
