Sogavare again calls for RAMSI exit plan

15/05/2008 14:53:30

The Solomon Islands opposition has again called on the government to draw up an exit plan for the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands, or RAMSI.

It follows Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua's statements on the ABC that he would like to see RAMSI continue its operation in the Solomons for the next ten years.

Opposition leader Mannaseh Sogavare says it would be irresponsible of the government to keep RAMSI in the Solomons unnecessarily, and just to please Australia.

He says an exit plan should be based on an independent assessment on what RAMSI has done and still needs to do, and whether it is preparing Solomon Islanders to take on the role it plays after its departure.

Mr Sogavare says Australia's policy of empowering the Pacific Islands Forum leaders to decide whether RAMSI should withdraw or set up permanently undermines the sovereignty of Solomon Islands.

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