Solomon Islanders called on to be agents of peace

8:57 am on 8 July 2016

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says all Solomon Islanders must consider whether they are positive agents of peace.

He was speaking during 38th independent celebrations on Thursday which carried the slogan 'Embracing Peace for Nation Building.'

It comes after a week of focus on the years of ethnic unrest at the turn of the century.

Mr Sogavare said leaders also need to wake up from their hibernation and help the country move forward or they will be left behind.

The prime minister said it was in everyone's interest to realise they all have a role to play.

He said peace had to start with everyone making a deliberate choice if it was to be achieved.

Manasseh Sogavare

Manasseh Sogavare Photo: RNZI