Amata Congratulates New Pacific Women Leaders in Solomon Islands

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amataiscongratulating several new Pacific women leaders in Solomon Islands, who will bring their insights and ideals to the National Parliament. Congresswoman Amata sent a message of congratulations to the three incoming Members, the Honorable Freda Tuke, the Honorable Kathy Nori, and the Honorable Choylin Douglas. Amata's letter notes the importance of their efforts on behalf of their people, democracy, and the Pacific region.

At the Coastwatchers Memorial in Honiara - Uifa'atali Peter T. Coleman served in Solomon Islands during World War II aboard a ship assigned to the Army placing and supporting these Coastwatchers

"I write to you today as a Pacific Island woman and representative to congratulate you on being entrusted by the people to be a Member of the National Parliament in Solomon Islands," said Congresswoman Amata.

"Our task as women serving as representatives is two-fold; we represent the best interests and values of our constituents while at times helping forge a path for other women. This is not always an easy task, but women leaders throughout the Pacific Islands can support each other.

Meeting with USAID personnel and their implementing partners about their work for the people of Solomon Islands

"I also want to congratulate the people of Solomon Islands for exercising their right to vote. This election was reported to have a high voter turnout. Democracy depends upon vigilant efforts for free and reliable elections, and as government officials it falls upon us to honor freedom, the will of the people, and a nation's laws and constitution. That is a big task.

"I was honored to visit Solomon Islands in 2023, including the Memorial honoring the important and brave work provided by Solomon Island scouts and the coastwatchers during World War II. They stood for the cause of freedom with the U.S. and Allied forces, and Pacific Island nations today can remember those examples in charting our shared future.

Amata concluded, "I hope we can meet in person, perhaps at an organized meeting of Pacific Island women leaders, so we might discuss our common ground and foster strong relationships and understanding across our Pacific Islands. Until then I wish you peace and wellness in performing your parliamentary leadership duties."

As the only Member of the U.S. Congress from the South Pacific in American Samoa, Amata serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC), and as Vice Chairman of its Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific. She also is a co-chairman of the Congressional Pacific Islands Caucus. In her role in the House Natural Resources Committee, she also chaired the Committee's Indo-Pacific Task Force for the current 118^th Congress.

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