13 Oct 2010

Solomons denies recalling UN ambassador Beck

2:39 pm on 13 October 2010

The Solomon Islands government says it is not recalling the country's Ambassador in New York, Collin Beck.

SIBC reports the Foreign Minister, Peter Shanel, has rejected media reports the Ambassador had been recalled because of his involvement in moves by the previous government to secure funds from Iran.

Solomon Islands also reportedly angered Israel when it voted in support of a report that criticised its assault on Gaza in 2008.

But the Foreign Minister says the report did not favour Palestine or Israel, and Solomon Islands endorsed it because it supports the principles of human rights.

Mr Shanel says Solomon Islands signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran two years ago, which focussed on financial assistance for development.

He says Mr Beck handled both issues well and transparently.