Sogavare feels the Games is more than "two weeks of sporting extravaganza" and will unite the people of the Pacific.

A total of 24 leaders of Pacific nations are expected to visit Honiara, where the Games are scheduled to be held from November 19 to December 2.

"I am proud to host this event and as a first-time host of this major sporting event - all preparations and planning are underpinned by one single word - legacy," Sogavare was quoted as saying by Papua New Guinea Post-Courier.

"This 2023 Pacific Games is all about leaving a legacy  for our young population, and our future generations.

"It is also the single largest unifying event for the nation.

"The theme for the 2023 Pacific games comprising three simple words – Challenge, Celebrate, Unite, which aptly describes Solomon Islands vision and hope that the games will continue to unify the nation."

Sogavare also thanked the Australian and Chinese Governments for their support in hosting the Games.

Australia provided a funding of AUD17 million ((£9.7 million/$11.8 million/€11 million) for the Games, with majority of it to help with the refurbishment of school dormitories, which will be used for athlete accommodation during the Games.

Solomon Islands 2023 have also received financial support from Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Japan and South Korea to aid preparations.

The country will be hosting the Pacific Games for the first time.