BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
SOLOMON Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has described the facilities for the XVII Pacific Games 2023 as a gift for the young and future generations of the country that will leave a lasting legacy for years to come.
Addressing the spectators at the historic opening of the XVII Pacific Games 2023 in Honiara on Sunday, he said the future beneficiaries of these exceptional Pacific Games facilities and infrastructures are the younger generations.
”These exceptional facilities and infrastructure will benefit the Games and leave incredible legacies that will serve future generations of Solomon Islanders,” said the honorable Prime Minister at the opening ceremony of the 2023 Pacific Games.
The delivery of the world-class national stadium with a seating capacity of 10,000 people, an aquatic center, a tennis court, a new track and field with 4 practice lanes, a large multi-purpose hall, an office, an administration block, and other essential sporting infrastructure aimed at the 2023 Pacific Games are set to benefit the future generation of Solomon Island.
Prime Minister Sogavare, on behalf of the government, acknowledged the support of regional and international key donor partners for their major contribution to the development of these world-class sporting facilities and venues aimed at the Games.
“I would like to acknowledge with a grateful heart on behalf of a grateful nation with key partnerships who significantly contributed to making these games possible. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) is our largest donor for the XVII Pacific Games 2023. Saudi Arabia, Australia, Indonesia, the independent state of Papua New Guinea (PNG), Japan, New Zealand, and the United States of America,’’ Hon. Sogavare said.
He described the preparation and commitment made by his government for the 2023 Pacific Games as an experience of a lifetime.
“Preparing for these games has been the experience of a lifetime. We have lived the theme for the 2023 Pacific Games. We faced multiple challenges, we celebrated our resilience, and through the Games, we united our country.”
“The athletes of the Pacific must now take on the mantle to challenge yourselves, celebrate our Pacific diversity, and unite our region,” the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister also recognized the 2023 Pacific Games (PG2023) sponsors, who have worked hand in hand with the PG2023 Games’ Organizing Committee (GOC) and the National Hosting Authority (NHA) to commemorate the memorable event that reflects the solidarity of our people, country, and our Oceania Pacific region.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, we were thankful for the significant contributions that made the Games possible. A catalyst for building economic, social, spiritual, and cultural bridges.
“The Pacific Games carry the true spirit of the Pacific. It has strengthened the friendship and bonds between the people and governments of the Pacific region.
“It showcases the very best in sport. But it also plays a vital role in building economic, social, spiritual, and cultural bridges.”
