The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Sir Michael Somare, says being given the Star of Solomon Islands is a great honour and a privilege.
The award is the highest honour in Solomon Islands and Sir Michael says it recognises not only what he has done for his own country but also his contribution to PNG's Melanesian neighbours.
Sir Michael, who is on a three day visit to the Solomons, says his links with the country go back forty years, during which time he has had associations with former Solomons' leaders such as the late Solomon Mamaloni, Sir Peter Kenilorea and Francis Billy Hilly.