BY SAMIE WAIKORI
PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare said the tripartite MoU signed between SIPA, Tri-Marine and Maersk for the redevelopment of Noro Port will increase production at the port.
Sogavare said during the launching of the blueprint for the multi-million dollar redevelopment of Noro port yesterday, “I understand that the main objective of this tripartite MoU is to increase the volume of reefer containers originating from Port of Noro with the assistance of Maersk and TriMarine.
“I also note that under this arrangement MAERSK will be providing two fish off-loaders and training as part of their obligation under this MoU.”
Sogavare said under the MoU, Tri-Marine will carry out business development to bring more fishing vessels to off-load their fish in Noro which will be converted to reefer cargo for export.
“Not only will this increase economic activity but I am sure that it will create employment opportunities and provide for livelihood development in Noro.
“It will also let exporters get competitive shipping rates to export their products to the rest of the world,” he said.
Sogavare said as part of contributing to the environment, the MoU would also be looking at investing in solar energy to power reefer containers and gradually transform into a Green Port in the future.
He said the signing also represents renewed confidence in SIPA and he has no doubt that this will act as a catalyst for prospective partners to come forward and partner with SIPA.
“I am also certain that this partnership will only grow in strength as we venture into the future.
“To the Board and Management of SIPA, I would also like to congratulate you in your vision and hard work which culminated in today’s [yesterday] ceremony.
“I am confident that this project would pave a path to achieve our long-term ambition of developing the Noro port as a geo-strategic transhipment port linking the rest of the world,” he said.
