Solomon Islands is today marking its 30th independence anniversary.
The day has been set aside to commemorate the Solomon's move to self government in 1976 and full independence from Britain two years later.
Our correspondent, Dorothy Wickham, says about 5000 people gathered at the stadium in Honiara this morning to attend the independence ceremony.
Ms Wickham says more is planned for later today.
"The governor general makes an address to the nation, that's at about 7.30 local time. The prime minister is hosting a ball tonight and then tomorrow another function is hosted by the city mayor of Honiara."
Dorothy Wickham says among this year's guests are Samoa's prime minister, Tuilaepa Sailele and Australia's parliamentary secretary for Pacific Islands Affairs, Duncan Kerr.
