THE People’s Republic of China has underscored its firm dedication to bolstering its cooperation with Malaita Province.
This deep-seated commitment spans across the sectors of economy and trade, infrastructure development and people-to-people exchange initiatives.
An official from the Chinese Embassy in Honiara, Gu Wenlong, pictured, spoke of China’s firm commitment to its cooperation with Malaita Province in his remarks at the 41st Second Appointed Day anniversary of the province in Auki last Thursday.
Mr Gu’s speech at the occasion marked a milestone in Malaita Province’s opening up to China and having an official from the Chinese Embassy speak at its Provincial Day celebration for the first time since the establishment of the SI-China diplomatic relations in September 2019. The Malaita Provincial Government and the leadership of Daniel Suidani advanced an anti-China policy, banning Chinese investments from Malaita.
The anti-China policy was thrown out by the Martin Fini Government and this open-door policy to all the country’s development bilaterial partners is maintained by the current Elijah Asilaua Government.
Mr Gu took the opportunity to emphasize the growing robust economic and trade relations between China and Solomon Islands. Last year, bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to $540 million USD.
Notably, China has eliminated tariffs on 98 percent of products from Solomon Islands since both countries established diplomatic ties.
This young but robust collaboration between the two countries recently saw the signing of agreements aimed at further boosting export opportunities for products such as coffee beans, cocoa beans and cultured aquatic products during the first official visit by MP Manele to China as Prime Minister.
These agreements also aim to facilitate increased export capabilities for provinces like Malaita, allowing them to access Chinese markets more effectively.
In terms of development cooperation, China remains steadfast in supporting Malaita’s development and economic growth, particularly through initiatives like the Auki Town Road Tar Sealing Project.
This commitment underscores China’s dedication to the province’s overall development and prosperity.
“In July 2023, the proposal of tar sealing project of the Auki Road was raised during the Solomon Islands leader’s visit to China and in October 2023, a MOU for the carrying out the project was signed. Early this year, the feasibility study of the project commenced.
“This July, we sealed the grant funding for this project during Prime Minister [Manele’s) visit to China, laying a solid foundation for an early implementation of the project and showing China’s strong commitment to the friendship and wellbeing of Malaitan people,” Mr Gu highlighted.
Mr Gu also took the opportunity to announce that Jiangsu Province of China will donate street solar lights to Malaita Province.
“Jiangsu, the province with sister relations with Malaita, will also give 100 sets of street solar lights to Auki, which will make the Auki Road even brighter.”
Emphasizing China’s dedication to strengthening People-to-People Exchange with Malaita, Mr Gu saidover 130 Solomon Islands students have been sponsored by China for studies and that a significant portion of these students hail from Malaita Province.
“Additionally, Chinese medical teams have provided vital treatment to over 20,000 patients, predominantly from Malaita, over the past two years.
“As part of this collaboration, a Chinese medical team conducted free consultations and treatments in Auki during the four-day Malaita Day event.
“China has an unwavering commitment to enhance provincial exchanges with Malaita.”
Mr Gu said earlier this year, a cooperation memorandum was signed between China’s Jiangsu Province and Malaita Province which led to a substantial donation of items worth approximately $880,000.
Mr Gu underlined that China’s Pacific Island Policy emphasizes the four principles of full respect for the sovereignty and independence of Pacific Island nations, honouring their will, respecting cultural traditions and supporting unity efforts.
He reiterated that China’s cooperation with Malaita and Solomon Islands aligns with Solomon Islands National Development Strategy.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
