Papua New Guinea's prime minister is hoping to grow business links between his country and Solomon Islands.
James Marape during his visit to Solomon Islands. Photo: Supplied.
James Marape arrived in the Solomons' capital Honiara yesterday for his first state visit.
Mr Marape's office said he was leading a "large business delegation," which includes government and private sector representatives.
Today, before bilateral discussions between the two governments, Mr Marape has talks with his Solomons' counterpart Manasseh Sogavare.
They are expected to follow up on their discussions in PNG last October regarding economic, trade and investment, labour mobility and employment opportunities.
James Marape in Solomon Islands. Photo: Supplied.
Both leaders are to attend a business luncheon with members of the private sector.
The PNG business delegation is also to meet with the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Other features of Mr Marape's state visit include a call at the Guadalcanal Plains Plantation Limited, a private business mostly owned by New Britain Palm Oil Limited of PNG.
On Saturday, Mr Marape is to spend most of his time at the Betikama Adventist College, where he will attend a church service with Mr Sogavare before departing for PNG that evening.
Mr Marape's Solomon Islands visit follows last week's four-day state visit to New Zealand, which followed a quick trip to Fiji.
Mr Marape with his Solomons' counterpart Manasseh Sogavare. Photo: Supplied.