www.lifhaus.com.sb

Members of the international community who were present at the opening ceremony of the Solomon Islands Permanent Mission in Geneva, Switzerland expressed both delight and support at the occassion.  The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka remarked in his opening speech that the priority areas of the mission will be on trade and human rights, "empowering women remains an integral component of our government's commitment."

Speaking at the opening of the mission, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat Permanent Representative to the WTO, Mrs Aivu Raevo Tauvasa expressed her full support for the mission on behalf of the Forum.  Mrs Tauvasa also highlighted that the mission will play a pivotal role in strengthening the Pacific Island countries participation in WTO and within various Geneva based international organizations.

In a further show of solidarity, the Commonwealth Secretariat also supported the PIF by lending its support and best wishes to the people of the Solomon Islands.  The Australian and New Zealand representatives were also very positive, both upbeat about the value of having a Solomon Islands diplomatic presence in Geneva.  The formal tone of the ceremony was punctuated by the New Zealand's representative's jovial support for the All Blacks.  "Finally, let me just remind everyone that New Zealand will win the Rugby World Cup," she remarked, much to the delight of those present at the ceremony.

The representative from the Canton of Geneva extended the canton's warm wishes and welcome to the newest member of the large, vibrant international community in Geneva.  In a symbolic gesture of partnership, the representative was also invited to cut the ribbon with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, to officially open the office.

Situated at 15 Chemin Louis Dunant, the mission is within walking distance from the offices of the UN and other international organisations in Geneva, and very close to the World Trade Organization. It includes spacious and well equipped conference and business facilities. While rent will be subsidised, the Canton of Geneva - the westernmost state of Switzerland will extend further subsidies to Least Developing Countries like the Solomon Islands. Subsidised utilities and service costs will be funded through donor contributions.

The ceremony also had a visible Solomon Islands presence as it was attended by a small Solomon Island community in Geneva, Switzerland and the Ambassador to the EU, Mr. Joseph Ma'ahanua. The minister was accompanied by the new desk officer for the United Nations, Mr. Johnny Tuhaika.