SI Government speaks highly of out-going head of RAMSI

The Government has spoken very highly of the services of outgoing Special Coordinator James Batley in RAMSI.

Foreign Minister Patteson Oti says Mr Batley was a fine diplomat, and has brought an invaluable experience into RAMSI. He told Mr Batley that the chances of meeting and working together again have never been better.

"James Batley took charge of RAMSI and is now leaving at an important stage of further development. The first RAMSI phase under his predecessor was to bring back law and order. It was the second phase attested to James which involved the actual investment in the re-working of the machinery of government. We are now at the next stage in the progressive development of the Regional Intervention Mission signified by the appointment of Mr. Timothy George."

The Foreign Affairs Minister says he is confident that the new RAMSI Special Coordinator will continue the special relationship with Solomon Islands.

Meanwhile, the New RAMSI Special Coordinator, Tim George says he is very keen to engage with the government during his term in Solomon Islands.

Speaking to local journalists in Honiara yesterday afternoon, the new RAMSI Special Coordinator says he is pleased with the support he's getting from the different sections of society he's met since arriving in Honiara to take up the post.

He says Australia has a strong and ongoing commitment in RAMSI, and will continue to play a leading role, as long as the Solomon Islands government is happy with that. Mr George says he's been impressed with the caliber of people from participating countries in RAMSI.

He says there's a good way forward of looking at RAMSI. Mr George officially takes over as RAMSI Special Coordinator today.

Source: SIBC