President Tsai an ‘inspiration’ to Solomon Islands women: Governor General

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to Solomon Islands gives encouragement to aspiring women leaders and girls in the country, the Governor General said.

Sir Frank Kabui made the statement during a state banquet lunch with the president this afternoon during the president’s visit to Honiara.

Sir Kabui said the Solomon Islands was pleased to see Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening the diplomatic relationship between the countries through the visit.

He said as a woman leader President Tsai was an inspiration to boost leadership participation of women and girls in Solomon Islands.

“Knowing that you have come to visit us is knowledge enough that you have interest in our country,” Sir Kabui said.

In her speech at Parliament, President Tsai addressed the issue of climate change.

In the speech — which came after a special invitation motion set by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare last Monday — President Tsai said Taiwan and Solomon Islands needed to initiate closer cooperation to effectively deal with issues related to climate change.

The president said a collective effort to address climate change issues was crucial as both countries were vulnerable to its impacts.

She said climate change could hinder their achievement of the United Nations sustainable development goals.