Ambassador Seam stressed the EU's long standing relation and friendship with Solomon Islands and its people, based on a legacy of common values, cooperation, and constructive economic relations.

Ambassador Seam said: ''The EU is seeking an increasingly close relationship with Solomon Islands going beyond development co-operation, to gradual integration in the global economy and deepening political dialogue. The aim of our partnership is to promote peace and security, human rights, democracy and good governance, economic and social development, climate change adaptation, risk mitigation and environmental protection. I look forward to working with Solomon Islands over the next four years to deepen our relationship further. I will also focus on strengthening the bilateral and regional cooperation and partnerships at all levels in line with the common goals and guiding framework enshrined in the Cotonou Partnership Agreement and post Cotonou.''

Ambassador Seam noted that since its inception more than six decades ago, the EU has become a global actor and a strategic political, development and economic partner for Solomon Islands. Ambassador Seam underlined that our close friendship with Solomon Islands has helped solidify our shared interests and values.

Ambassador Seam represents the Presidents of the European Commission and the European Council, under the authority of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Ambassador Seam is a French citizen.  He is married to Jane Seam and has moved to Fiji where he is based with their two children.

ENDS