Strengthening Bilateral Ties with China
His Excellency Barrett Salato, the Solomon Islands Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, officially assumed his duties after presenting a copy of his Credentials to Mr. Li Xiang, Deputy Director General of the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.
During the ceremony, DDG Li received the Letter of Credentials on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, marking a formal step in Ambassador Salato’s role. Salato is expected to present his credentials to PRC President Xi Jinping at a later date.
Expressing gratitude, Ambassador Salato thanked the government and people of China for the warm hospitality extended to him and his family since their arrival in Beijing on December 21, 2023. He commended the leadership of Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and President Xi Jinping for their roles in strengthening Solomon Islands-China relations.
Acknowledging the work of his predecessor, the late Ambassador John Moffat Fugui, Salato pledged to build upon the foundation laid by Fugui. He expressed gratitude for China’s assistance to the Solomon Islands, particularly in infrastructure development for the Pacific Games 2023, emphasizing the strong friendship between the two nations.
Highlighting his priorities during his posting, Ambassador Salato focused on trade and investment as crucial tasks. He reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to the One-China Principle, recognizing the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government representing the entirety of China.
In response, DDG Li conveyed a warm welcome to Ambassador Salato and congratulated him on assuming his role as the second Ambassador of Solomon Islands to China. Li emphasized the historical significance of the diplomatic relations between the two countries, emphasizing equality and partnership. He invited Salato to explore the various provinces of China to gain a deeper understanding of the culture, people, and history.
Ambassador Salato is scheduled to pay courtesy visits to Chinese Government Ministries, other Diplomatic Missions in Beijing, and state-owned and private enterprises in the coming days.
Source: MFAET
