The Opposition leader in Solomon Islands has said he's saddened by what he describes as the government's "deafening silence" on Australia's bushfire crisis.
Matthew Wale the MP for Aoke Langa Langa, who is one of the two candidates contesting the prime ministerial election in Solomon Islands on Wednesday 24 April. Photo: Island Sun/Charles Kadamana
On Monday, after much criticism from the public on the lack of support shown for Australia, where bushfires have been raging since September, the Solomon Islands government sent condolences to the government and people of Australia.
However, the Solomon Star reports Matthew Wale saying the government must do more to reciprocate the compassion Australia has shown the Solomon Islands over the years.
"The Australian government and people have always stood by us during our most trying times, including those moments when we also experienced natural disasters.
"Our neighbours, PNG, Vanuatu and others have already made commitments to assist and so it makes one wonder why our government is so silent."
He called on churches around the country to pray for Australians affected by the devastating bushfires.
"Words really cannot express the difficulties faced by the families and businesses affected and my heart goes out to each and every one of them. Indeed these are truly trying times," Wale said.
Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea is to send 100 soldiers to help with efforts to fight the fires.
PNG prime minister James Marape had earlier offered to send 1000 soldiers and firefighters.
Vanuatu has also come to Australia's aid, donating $US175,000 to the bushfire recovery effort.
Other Pacific nations, including Palau and Fiji, have offered their support.