Central Bank of Solomon Islands

11/30/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/30/2023 23:40

Press Release 15/23: CBSI Hosts 38th Pacific Central Bank Governors Meeting

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) is currently hosting the 38th Pacific Central Bank Governors Meeting (PCBGM) here in Honiara this week at the Heritage Park Hotel.

This year's theme is on Leveraging Digital Technology for Inclusive and Sustainable Development: Shared Prosperity and according to the Governor of CBSI, Dr. Luke Forau, the theme represents the significant importance of financial technology, and the on-going effort to advance financial services throughout the region within this space.

"In an era defined by rapid advancement in technology and complexity, Central Banks play a pivotal role in maintaining monetary stability, safeguarding financial systems and supporting economic growth", Governor Forau highlighted in his opening remarks.

"This meeting serves as a platform to exchange knowledge and ideas, share experiences and chart the path forward in these ever-evolving times", he added.

The 38th PCBGM formal opening on Wednesday was graced by the Minister of Finance and Treasury, Hon. Harry Kuma, who was on hand to deliver the keynote address, and outline the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) support towards the theme and discussions topics by the regional governors here in Honiara.

"In this modern day and age where digital finance is moving at a faster pace, we find the theme very relevant and fitting", Hon. Kuma stated.

"Firstly, the unique challenges Solomon Islands face as a nation present an opportunity in this space, and here we ask, what policy makers can do? Secondly, the theme entails a sense of hope that there are technological solutions on the horizon", Hon. Kuma added.

Minister Kuma also stated that the theme is consistent with the Pacific Regional E-Commerce Strategy for the region and further highlighted areas on risks to be noted.

With more than 70 participants from Honiara and including overseas from the different central and reserve bank institutions, and major stakeholders within the central banking community, the meeting marks another major event currently being held in the Solomon Islands.

The 38th PCBGM hosted by CBSI and supported by the Asian Development Bank, is attended by the Governors, Deputy and Assistant Governors including senior executives from Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Vanuatu, Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Australia and New Zealand.

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For more information, contact the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) on 21791 or Email:[email protected] | Website: www.cbsi.com.sb