THE People’s Republic of China (PRC) is gearing up for its next significant infrastructure project in the country and this is the China-Aid funded Auki Road Tar Seal Project, which is set to commence soon.
This project is poised to revolutionise the travel experience, while fostering trade and economic development.
At last week’s unveiling of the newly completed Commonwealth Street Upgrade Project, Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands, Cai Weiming expressed enthusiasm about the Auki Road Tar Seal Project.
Ambassador Cai underlined the critical role that improved transportation infrastructure plays in advancing the overall development of Malaita Province.
He said China is prepared to work closely with Solomon Islands to implement more projects for shared betterment and this is reflective of that strengthening China-Solomon Islands partnership, which is focused on infrastructure development and economic cooperation.
“China is willing to enhance alignment between the B&R (Belt and Road) Initiative with the Solomon Islands Government development strategy.
“The next big project will be the China-Aid Auki Road Project which will start soon. After completion, it will significantly enhance inner-provincial connectivity, facilitate safe and convenient travel for local residents, promote the flow of goods and services, and drive the development of various industries in the Province and China is ready to work closely with Solomon Islands to implement more projects for the betterment of our shared future,” the PRC envoy said.
Ambassador Cai said the completion of the Commonwealth Street Upgrade Project is another testament to the strength and depth of the B&R cooperation between China and Solomon Islands.
“Since both countries stablished diplomatic relations and signed the B&R cooperation document five years ago, multiple infrastructure projects have been implemented and Chinese companies have actively participated in infrastructure construction in Solomon Islands under the agreement of aid, loans or contracts.
“They undertook construction works on projects like sports stadium complex, university campus, dormitory buildings, hospital building, hydro power station, roads, bridges, seaports, airports, communication towers in Honiara and almost all nine provinces of Solomon Islands,” Ambassador Cai said.
The Chinese Ambassador said, China not only delivered high quality projects, but also helped create jobs to generate income for Solomon Islands workers and shared its expertise and technical know-how with locals.
He said the Commonwealth Street Upgrade Project was funded by the Solomon Islands Ports Authourity, but designed and implemented by China Railway Construction Engineering Group.
By JIMMY NOLAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
