Fiji, Sept. 9 -- Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has officially assumed the role of Pacific Islands Forum Chair, calling on leaders to unite and tackle the region's critical challenges head-on on its journey toward resilience, peace, and regionalism.

Opening the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders' Meeting (PIFLM54) in Honiara on Monday, Manele welcomed leaders to the Solomon Islands, describing it as a "great honour and a deep privilege" for his country and people.

"Indeed, the true beauty of the Forum is the opportunity that we have to share the richness of our culture, diversity and heritage through the annual convenings of our Leaders Summit, across our Blue Pacific Continent," Manele said.

He paid special tribute to ...