SIG condemns attack on Taiwanese Ambassador's official car

By Deli Oso, Press Secretary to the PM

The Solomon Islands Government (SIG) has condemned in the strongest term the unwarranted attack on the official car of the Ambassador of the Republic of China to Solomon Islands , His Excellency George Chan on Saturday night.

The car’s tyres were flattened, rear window smashed and the official flag vandalized whilst parked at the Honiara Hotel where the diplomat was attending an official function.

The government vows to take all the necessary action to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice for their deplorable actions.

“My government is shocked at the atrocious attack on the vehicle of the ambassador of the Republic of China, His Excellency George Chan and we will do everything within our power to ensure those responsible are arrested and punished accordingly.

“We see the attack as not only directed at the ambassador but the entire government and the peace loving people of the Republic of China who have done nothing but supported the development efforts of Solomon Islands.

“On behalf of the people and government of Solomon Islands I sincerely apologise for what has happened and I would like to assure the Government and people of the Republic of China such actions were not representative of the peace loving and law abiding majority of Solomon Islanders but rather a few individuals who do not have respect for diplomats and seek to undermine the friendly and cordial relationship Solomon Islands and Taiwan continue to enjoy,” Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said.

Mr Sogavare said: “the People’s Republic of China has stood by Solomon Islands in both good and bad times and my government is shocked that the perpetrators saw it fit to lay their hands on a friend indeed.”

He said the police were now investigating the atrocity and he appeals to people who may have information on those responsible to contact police.