Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele acknowledges the partnership between the government and Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He also congratulates Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry for successfully hosting the 8th Business Excellence Awards.

Speaking during the event, Honourable Manele says, his government values SICCI partnership in driving reforms in the public sector.

He adds that the Government is willing to listen to SICCI whenever SICCI wants to talk.

“There is no other similar body such as SICCI in this country. SICCI is a trustworthy and credible institution that has carried itself with integrity over the years.

“The Government treasures and values this friendship with SICCI and the Government will continue to nurture this partnership,” Hon. Manele says.

He says the government recognizes the role that SICCI plays in the private sector describing SICCI as a genuine and trusted friend who pushes for growth of the private sector in the country.

“The government cherishes the private sector contributions. We are committed to continuing and increasing our efforts to progress reforms and key economic infrastructure developments that will complement and strengthen private sector development. Most importantly, we are here to acknowledge all of your contribution to nation building. Whether you receive an award you are all winners.

“We are celebrating the achievements and awards of our businesses, especially the accomplishments that they achieved through hard work, resilience, commitment, and perseverance. We are here to celebrate their triumph in the face of adversity,” Hon. Manele says.

He told those present that the 8th Business Excellence Awards theme “Navigating Business Through a Challenging Landscape” calls for continuing public-private sector partnership.

Hon. Manele adds that the theme reflects on the many difficulties faced by the private sector in recent years during the global health pandemic, the November 2021 Honiara riots, and wars in Europe and the Middle East.

“Despite these difficult times, we struggled to forge ahead. We are not alone in our challenges,” he says.

Hon. Manele emphasises that the only way forward is working together in partnership finding ways to mitigate the challenges and embark on meaningful reforms that can create a conducive environment for private sector growth.

He says, the Business Excellence Award has grown in stature since its inception in 2013.

“Now it is an illustrious and distinguished event that is proudly supported by the Solomon Islands Government and SICCI. The Government has been supporting this event in the past and will continue to do so in the future. This is a testament of our mutual partnership,” Prime Minister Manele says.

The event, widely regarded as SICCI’s most prestigious annual gathering, drew an impressive turnout from the business community on Saturday 16th November at the Aquatic Center.