The Coalition for National Unity and Rural Advancement in Solomon Islands is encouraging more investment in the mining industry.
The Minister for Mines and Energy Edward Huni'ehu made the remark when he accompanied Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua on his first official visit to the Gold Ridge Mine in Central Guadalcanal.
He said the Gold Ridge Mine and the Isabel nickel prospecting are two key components for economic growth.
Currently, the economy is heavily supported by logging and the government is turning its focus on mining as the engine for economic growth.
Mr Huni'ehu said his ministry has executed a plan for more prospecting in the Gold Ridge mine.
Mining and exploration company Australian Solomon's Gold Limited is currently working to revive the mine, that was forced to close in 2000 during the ethnic tension.
