The Solomon Islands’ new coalition government has launched its official policy document, describing it as the Government for Reform, Empowerment, Accountability and Transformation’s (GREAT) “strategic blueprint” which “outlines our absolute commitment to empowering local communities”.
It comes 52 days after Prime minister Matthew Wale’s election following the ousting of his predecessor Jeremiah Manele in a vote of no confidence in parliament.
While unveiling the 60-page document in Honiara on Monday, Wale said his government’s priorities, principles and future direction for the country sit on four pillars, which has a strong focus on “indigenous Solomon Islanders”.
“The GREAT Coalition Government chooses to build. We choose to strengthen institutions that earn and sustain the confidence of our people. We choose to build a productive economy that creates opportunities for Solomon Islanders.
“We choose to manage our natural wealth wisely so that future generations inherit more than we received. Above all, we choose to invest in our people, because they remain the greatest asset our nation possesses.
He said his GREAT coalition believed lasting national progress begins with strong institutions, a productive economy, the responsible stewardship of their natural wealth and investment in the people of Solomon Islands.
“Our ambition is clear. We seek an economy that rewards enterprise, encourages innovation, supports local industry, creates employment for our young people,” the prime minister said.
“An economy where indigenous Solomon Islanders increasingly become owners, investors, producers and exporters rather than simply consumers.”
