BY TONY IROGA
The partnership between China’s Jiangsu Province and Malaita Province is creating new opportunities for women and students through education and economic empowerment.
Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) Alfred Lazarus Rimah highlighted this during a ceremony attended by Jiangsu Province Vice Governor Zhao Yan and Malaita Premier Elijah Asilaua at Mendana Hotel on June 24.
Rimah said the growing relationship demonstrates how international cooperation can directly improve the lives of ordinary Solomon Islanders.
The event, themed “Together Towards Shared Growth” marked the presentation of scholarships and donations of sewing machines to support women in Malaita Province.
Rimah expressed that the gathering is much more than a donation ceremony as it is also a celebration of enduring friendship, mutual trust and shared commitment to improving the lives of people.
He said the sewing machines will help women establish small businesses, generate household income and strengthen their families and communities.
“When women are economically empowered, families become stronger, communities become more resilient and provinces become more prosperous,” he said.
Rimah said the programme is the first practical outcome of the Memorandum of Agreement signed between the Malaita Provincial Government and Jiangsu Provincial Government on June 19, covering cooperation in agriculture, trade, education, cultural exchanges and people’s wellbeing.
He also welcomed Jiangsu Province’s continued support for scholarships, describing education as one of the most valuable investments in the country’s future.
Addressing the scholarship recipients, Rimah urged them to pursue their studies with discipline and return home to contribute to the development of their communities.
He thanked the Government of the People’s Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, the Chinese Embassy and the Malaita Provincial Government for supporting the initiative.
“Together, let us continue working hand in hand towards our shared mission of peace, partnership, prosperity and a stronger Solomon Islands,” he said.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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