The Solomon Islands Prime Minister has announced plans to boost the country's economic growth and tackle corruption in a major speech to announce his newly-elected government's policies this morning.
Manasseh Sogavare says with falling revenue from logging and uncertainty surrounding the future of the closed Gold Ridge mine, the government needs to grow other industries such as tourism, fisheries and agriculture.
Manasseh Sogavare Photo: RNZI Koroi Hawkins
Mr Sogavare says the economy needs a bigger push to achieve and sustain economic growth at no less than five percent, and plans to do that through a series of reforms in the productive and financial sectors.
He says the government will open up customary lands to allow owners to exploit their tribal lands and create job opportunities in the provinces.
The government will also implement a number of measures to combat corruption, including developing what Mr Sogavare calls comprehensive anti-corruption legislation and strategies, and establishing an independent commission against corruption.
Mr Sogavare also announced plans to carry on reforms initiated by the previous government, including a review of the Political Parties Integrity Act and the country's electoral system.