Solomon Islands — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata with Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL) of the US House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party traveled to Solomon Islands, meeting with Solomon officials and community leaders earlier this week. In visiting Guadalcanal, Congresswoman Amata and Congressman Dunn laid wreaths at the American War Memorial to honor those who fought to secure freedom in the 20th century, as growing CCP aggression threatens to undermine peace in the 21st century.

“Solomon Islands were strategically important in World War II, for the generations since, and certainly still today. It was a special honor to help lay a wreath at the Guadalcanal American Memorial and think of these heroes who left us a legacy of freedom that we cannot fail to uphold,” said Congresswoman Amata. “My father, the late Peter Tali Coleman, served in these waters and islands as a young US Army officer in support of the Coastwatchers, who reported on enemy activity at great risk to their lives. Dad told us about serving aboard the USS Echo, a US Navy schooner assigned to the US Army, which took Coastwatchers to and from their stations. Now, 81 years later, we must remain strongly committed to the Pacific region and keep working with Solomon Islands to preserve peace and security.”

“As the Chinese Communist Party seeks to export its influence across the globe, Solomon Islands cannot be overlooked.” Select Committee Chairman Mike Gallagher (R-WI) said of the lawmakers’ trip. “The same geographic logic that etched places like Guadalcanal into the American memory still holds true today. We must work with our traditional friends in Solomon Islands to protect our common values and ensure peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific.”

“Like a viper slithering around its prey, the CCP is coiling around Solomon Islands in hopes of tightening their grip on the Indo-Pacific region. This is very similar to the power plays Imperial Japan made leading up to WWII. Standing at the war memorial at Guadalcanal reminded me how imperative it is that we rein in the CCP before history repeats itself. We must preserve our relationships with our friends in Solomon Islands to ensure the Indo-Pacific remains stable and peaceful,” Congressman Dunn said.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

While the Prime Minister was unable to make time in his schedule to meet with the U.S. Representatives, the Members were able to meet with several members of the opposition, including The Honorable Matthew Wale, Peter Kenilorea, and Rick Houenipwela.

The Members of Congress met with USAID personnel and their implementing partners, working to help the people of Solomon Islands.

They also toured the National Referral Hospital and met with hospital leadership to discuss the importance of US medical diplomacy and the incredible work the staff at the hospital does for the community.

Congresswoman Amata and Congressman Dunn also had the opportunity to meet with the family and friends of Daniel Siudani, a pro-American leader and democracy advocate who was forced to flee the country after persecution from the government. 

The Members visited the Coastwatchers Memorial in Honiara. Congresswoman Amata’s father, Uifa’atali Peter T. Coleman was a young U.S. Army officer where he served in Solomon Islands for a time during World War II aboard a ship assigned to Army supply, and placing and supporting coastwatchers in the islands.