Ambassador Salato Honours Winners of Short Film Competition Celebrating Solomon Islanders’ Experiences in China

Solomon Islands Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency Barrett Salato has commended Solomon Islanders for sharing powerful personal stories of their visits to China during an award ceremony for a short film competition held in Honiara.

The competition featured creative short films by Solomon Islanders who had recently travelled to China under various exchange and cooperation programs. The films documented their first-hand experiences of Chinese society, culture, development, and people-to-people connections.

Ambassador Salato described the entries as “authentic and moving reflections” that captured the essence of what it means to engage with China beyond stereotypes and media narratives.

“Today we come together to celebrate the voices of our people who have seen China for themselves, not the China often portrayed in the Western media, but the real China they experienced with their own eyes,” Ambassador Salato said during his keynote remarks.

“These films reflect truth, understanding, and friendship and remind us that seeing is believing.”

The Ambassador emphasized that such people-to-people exchanges form a vital bridge between the two nations, contributing to deeper mutual respect and cultural understanding.

He also shared feedback received from Solomon Islanders visiting the Solomon Islands Embassy in Beijing, many of whom were surprised and inspired by what they saw and experienced in China.

Some of the common reflections shared included:

• “Everything we were told about China before was false.”
• “The Chinese people were incredibly kind, welcoming and hospitable.”
• “China’s development is impressive, and their infrastructure is world-class.”
• “There is order, cleanliness, and strong cultural identity everywhere.”
• “Family values in China are just like ours—deeply rooted and respected.”

Ambassador Salato acknowledged the efforts of the Chinese Embassy in Honiara and the Government of China for supporting cultural exchange programs that continue to foster greater understanding between the two peoples.

He also reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ recognition of the One-China Principle and the strength of the bilateral relationship, noting that these shared exchanges are part of a broader and growing partnership that has delivered tangible benefits for Solomon Islands.

“These stories, told through film, give life to the true friendship between our peoples. They are not just memories, they are milestones in our journey together,” he added.

The event concluded with the official presentation of awards to the winning filmmakers. Their short films will be featured on local platforms to inspire more Solomon Islanders to engage in similar cultural and educational opportunities with China.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs & External Trade