Prince Imran receives traditional Solomon Islands gifts (Including photos)
After a fantastic Commonwealth Games experience, Team Solomon Islands show their appreciation
for being able to compete in the Commonwealth Games. In an official meeting with HRH Prince Imran, President
of the Commonwealth Games Federation, Chef de Mission of Team Solomon Islands Ronald Talasasa,
presented a gift of appreciation.
Ronald gave Prince Imran a replica of a traditional war canoe, which represented the tradition
of the Solomon Islands. As he explained, “it is a replica of what our people used
in the past to travel from one place to another to kill, but today as members of the
Commonwealth we no longer travel to kill. We travel from one place to another to forge
friendships, and bring peace and unity among the nations of the Commonwealth.”
In order to represent other parts of the Solomon Islands, Prince Imran was also gifted with a long
shell money ‘necklace’, which is significant in the Solomon Islands. As Ronald described,
“it is a very traditional gift that can bring two warring parties together to reconcile and also used as a means of paying bride
price for a woman in marriage.
"We brought this gift as a bonding of our friendship with the Commonwealth.”
Prince Imran was delighted with the gifts he received, and gave a speech after the presentation,
which Ronald summarised: “He was very happy that we were able to attend the Games and be
here participating with other nations. He hopes that the Solomon Islands will continue to support
the CGF and that the friendship will grow stronger and stronger.”
Ronald also took a moment to reflect on a successful Games. He was thankful for the opportunity to be here in Glasgow,
“As small as we are, we were able to come to the Commonwealth Games and compete on an equal
playing field with the champions. The team have been able to gauge their level of competitiveness and performance
against world class athletes. We have all enjoyed it, and the hospitality has been so marvellous.”...Ends...
This article was produced by Dan O'Hara of The Reporters’ Academy, the
official media of the Pacific Nations at Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Currently reporting from the athletes village.
Last Modified on 11/08/2014 21:07