BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
FORTY Outboard Motors (OBMs) donated by the People’s Republic of China will be distributed across all 26 wards in Western Province as well as key institutions including schools, health clinics and government substations.
Premier Billy Veo announced this during the official handover ceremony, describing the donation as a significant boost to transportation and service delivery throughout the province.
He said the OBMs will provide vital logistical support and improve connectivity between rural communities and urban centres, helping to strengthen economic and social activities across Western Province.
“On behalf of my government and the people of Western Province, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the People’s Republic of China and Fujian Province for your generosity, friendship and continued support.
“As we officially receive these assets, we also confirm our commitment to strengthening cooperation and building on the relationship we share with China for the benefit of our people and future generations,” Veo said.
He said the donation reflects the growing partnership between Western Province and China’s Fujian Province and expressed confidence that the sister-province relationship will continue to flourish.
Veo said the support from Fujian Province has contributed to development efforts in Western Province and will help improve access to essential services in remote communities.
Representing the Chinese delegation, First Secretary Charlie Song highlighted the strong relationship between Western Province and Fujian Province, saying that both provinces share common interests in advancing rural development and creating opportunities for their people.
Song said fisheries, tourism and community development are among the key areas where both provinces can work together for mutual benefit.
“I hope the two provinces will build on what has already been achieved and continue to explore new avenues of cooperation in the fields of agriculture, trade, tourism and people-to-people exchange, and deliver more tangible and practical outcomes to benefit the people of our two countries,” he said.
The donation of the 40 OBMs is expected to improve transportation services and support development initiatives in rural communities throughout Western Province.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
