20 Jun 2017

Without peace, development cannot take place, Solomons PM

11:49 am on 20 June 2017
Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare at UN facilitated talks about building confidence as RAMSI goes.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare at UN facilitated talks about building confidence as RAMSI goes. Photo: UNDP Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has told a National Peace Dialogue in Honiara there are fundamental challenges that impede sustainable development.

The event has been looking at the importance of sustainable peace to the social and economic fabric of the country.

Mr Sogavare said without peace development cannot take place.

He said how to access custom land for commmercial purposes was one of the key issues the country needs to solve.

Other matters he has highlighted include poor governance, especially corruption and the ineffective delivery of public services that can result.

Mr Sogavare also said the frequency of natural disasters continuously set the Solomons back.

He said his government's plans for investment in the productive sector and initiatives to hasten development in rural areas should generate economic growth.

Mr Sogavare said his government remains committed to implementing the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and it had a reparations framework in place.