The Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele, MP, highlighted the importance of the Bina Harbor project to the new Japanese Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Higuchi Keiichi, during the latter’s courtesy introductory call, Thursday.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) prioritized the project and that it was one of the main highlights in the discussion with Japan’s Prime Minister at the recent Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) in Tokyo, Japan.
He stated that the Bina Harbor project will yield many benefits, including the provision of employment opportunities, and that it will serve as a major infrastructure development for Malaita Province.
PM Manele further underscored that the government welcomes Japan’s contribution to the project.
Prime Minister Manele acknowledged Japan’s development assistance and aid to the Solomon Islands over the last four decades, citing that Japan is one of the traditional partners of the Solomon Islands
In terms of infrastructure development, PM Manele acknowledged Japan’s assistance with projects such as the Auki Wharf, the Kilu’ufi improvement and expansion, the Kukum Highway, continuous support to the Ministry of Fisheries, and the fisheries centre at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).
He paid tribute to Japan’s contribution to the human capital development of the country through the provision of scholarships and upskilling training for public service officials.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged Japan’s assistance at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. PM Manele praised Japan’s contribution to the removal of unexploded ordnance (UXOs), which continue to threaten development plans in the country.
PM Manele underscored Japan’s leadership in the region under the platforms of the PALM and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).
He expressed that the Solomon Islands will continue to value its bilateral relationship with Japan and will seek further opportunities for cooperation.
The new Japanese Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Higuchi Keiichi, returned the favour by assuring the Prime Minister of Japan’s readiness to contribute to the Bina Harbor Project.
His Excellency Keiichi assured PM Manele that he would work closely with the Ministry of Fisheries and the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) officials to consolidate Japan’s support for this important project.
His Excellency Keiichi highlighted that he wants to work with young people in the areas of education and health care.
He assured the Prime Minister that there are many opportunities to explore and that he will do his best to build on the foundation left by his predecessor.
- OPMC
