26 Apr 2019

Taiwan welcomes election of Sogavare in Solomons

11:26 am on 26 April 2019

Taiwan's government is optimistic for future relations with Solomon Islands after the election of Manasseh Sogavare as prime minister.

Manasseh Sogavare speaks on the steps of Solomon Islands National Parliament shortly after winning the prime ministerial election. 24 April 2019

Manasseh Sogavare speaks on the steps of Solomon Islands National Parliament shortly after winning the prime ministerial election. 24 April 2019 Photo: Forum Solomon Islands International

The state-owned Central News Agency quoted the Foreign Ministry saying Mr Sogavare was "an old friend of Taiwan".

A spokesperson for the ministry said Taiwan was happy to see the prime minister's victor and was looking forward to strengthening diplomatic ties.

The spokersperson said no Taiwanese were injured in Wednesday's riots which broke out after Mr Sogavare was announced as prime minister.

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