Solomon Islands: UN team seeking ways to help Government cut ethnic tension

A United Nations team today wrapped up a weeklong visit to the Solomon Islands aimed at helping the country’s government reduce ethnic tension and stop ongoing violence.

Dispatched at the request of Prime Minister Allan Kemakeza, the team heard a wide range of views during talks with government officials, opposition members of Parliament, representatives of civil society, former militants, and members of the diplomatic corps in Honiara. Team members also visited the provincial capitals of Gizo and Auki, and held meetings in eastern Guadacanal.

Based on these talks, the team will formulate proposals for expanding UN activities in the country into such areas as reconciliation, weapons collection and security reform. In making its recommendations, the team will work closely with States of the region as well as the Pacific Islands Forum and the Commonwealth.