THE recent signing of the SIPA- Maersk-Tri Marine Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to bring more economic opportunities for people in the Western province.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare in his remarks during the signing ceremony in Honiara last week highlighted the importance of the partnership.
“These trade partnerships will not only increase economic activity but I am sure it will create employment opportunities and provide for livelihood development in Noro.
“Maersk shipping line will be providing two fish off-loaders and training as part of their obligation under this MoU.
“Tri-Marine will carry out business development to bring more fishing vessels to offload their fish in Noro which will be converted to reefer cargo for export,” he said.
Mr Sogavare said the MoU will also let exporters get competitive shipping rates to export their products to the rest of the world.
Western Provincial Premier Wayne Maepio during a site visit to Noro port with the tripartite team last week said the MoU will bring more benefits to his people.
“I thank SIPA, Maersk and Tri Marine for this partnership which I know will bring benefits to my people.
“This is a historic achievement for the parties involved and will surely boost trading here.
“As a host province of this partnership, I am proud and grateful for your choice to invest in the Western Solomons,” he said.
“We have planted a seed here with this MoU so we must maintain it to become successful into the future,” he added.
Work on expanding and concrete cementing of Noro Port is expected to be completed before the end of this year.
By TEDDY KAFO
