Fiji responds to Solomon Islands natural disaster

Fiji will stand in unison and support with Solomon Islands following flash floods in the Melanesian nation that have caused severe destruction and death, the Fijian government said Saturday. This week, Solomon Islands faced severe destruction following flash floods which claimed the lives of at least 16 people. The flash flooding has displaced thousands of people in most parts of the country and mainly in the capital of Honiara. In a message to his Solomon Islands counterpart Gordon Darcy Lilo, Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama conveyed the sympathies of the Fijian people in response to this disaster, according to the Ministry of Information. "On behalf of the people and government of Fiji, I convey to you and the people of Solomon Islands our sincere sympathies," Bainimarama said, adding that "our condolences also go to the families of the victims." The head of the Fijian government said Fiji knew from past experience the terrible damage that flooding and similar disasters can reap not just on land and houses but on the lives of those affected. "The government and people of Fiji therefore are with you at this difficult time and my government will lend you and the people of the Solomons whatever support that we can in the coming weeks," said Bainimarama.