TAR-SEALING of the Auki road project in Malaita Province will commence soon.
This comes after Minister of Infrastructure Development (MID), Manasseh Maelanga and Cai Weiming, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to Solomon Islands signed the agreement on Thursday 10th October.
The brief signing ceremony took place inside the Cabinet room of the Office of Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC).
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and Premier of Malaita Province, Elijah Asilaua have witnessed the significant signing last wee.
PM Manele underscored that the signing marks the official commencement of a project that will change peoples’ lives for generations to come.
He stressed the people of Malaita Province deserve better road infrastructure.
“To the people of Malaita, may this road be a lasting source of pride and a reminder that, through partnership, we have the power to transform our communities,” he said.
Prime Minister Manele said the Auki Road project reflects their shared belief that every citizen deserves safe, reliable infrastructure that supports their aspirations and well-being.
He also highlighted that the project is the culmination of a strong partnership between the national government and the PRC, adding that it is also a testament to cooperation and commitment.
“This road, which will benefit generations to come, stands as a symbol of what we can accomplish when we work hand in hand toward a shared vision for progress,” he said.
PM Manele stated that the project is one of the key outcomes of his recent state visit to the PRC.
This collaboration is a testament to the power of unity and mutual respect.
“It is the strength we find in each other’s support, as both the National Government and the Provincial Government have brought their resources, expertise, and commitment together for the benefit of the people of Malaita,” he said.
This partnership sets a model for cooperation that will inspire future projects and greater development in the country, the Prime Minister continued.
“Sustainable development, improved infrastructure and prosperity can only be achieved when they support each other and work together to meet the needs of their communities,” he added.
The Prime Minister thanked PRC Ambassador His Excellency Cai Weiming for committing his personal time during his holiday in Beijing to ensure that the project is implemented.
Furthermore, H.E Cai Weiming expressed that the signing is another testament of China’s support to Solomon Islands infrastructure development.
He said it further cementing the SI- PRC friendship.
He stressed the infrastructure connectivity is an important component of the relationship.
Ambassador Cai Weiming assures that China will continue to provide assistance to Solomon Islands in infrastructure, rural development, trade, health care and education.
Moreover, the Malaita Provincial Premier Asilaua said, the signing fortifies the SI-PRC relations.
“On behalf of my provincial government and people of Malaita, I convey our heartfelt gratitude for the gift of the Auki road infrastructure.
“Malaita appreciates and support the SI-PRC relations,” he said.
Premier Asilaua adds, the advancement of the Auki road infrastructure underscores the prioritisation of their rural communities infrastructure needs for better services.
The Malaita Road Network Project began with the signing of various necessary documents toward the end of last year. It will be the major project for Malaita Province alongside the Kilu’ufi Hospital maintenance work funded by the Japanese Government.
Malaita Province is the most populated province, and it has a lot of potential to develop further and contribute to nation-building.
- Govt Com Unit
