THE Government of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) yesterday handed over the 2023 Pacific Games Stadium project to the Solomon Islands Government.
The handing ceremony was held at the national sports stadium at the King George Sixth Westend Sports Park.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare in his address described the handing over as another piece of history in the relationship between the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) and the Solomon Islands Government.
“Thank you very much to join us for this historic event.
“This is another piece of history as we celebrate the completion and handing over of the Pacific Games stadium project
“This is a gift from the Peoples Repulic of China to the Solomon Islands Government and the relationship between the two Governments is taken to new heights,” the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Sogavare acknowledged the work done by contractor CCECC and CSADI despite the many challenges they faced during months of work.
“What the contractors have achieved in 26 months due to the challenges is nothing short of a miracle
“Thank you CCECC for tireless effort and commitment to make sure it’s completed ahead of time,” PM Sogavare said.
The Ambassador of the Peoples Republic of China to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Li Ming said the Stadium project is the best gift from the Government and people of China to the Solomon Islands.
“Today is indeed a day of significance.
“The stadium is the best gift from the Government and the people of China.
“It’s the best gift and at the right time.
“After the handing over, the national stadium will belong to the people of Solomon Islands.
“I am confident the stadium is in the right hands
“The China Aid PD 2023 is the largest project that China has assisted in the Pacific Island countries so far,” H.E Li Ming said.
The 2023 Pacific Games Stadium project consists of seven project components situated in two locations, the Westend and Eastend Sports Park.
Four of the seven components of the project is situated at the Westend Sports Park, which includes the main national sports stadium that houses 10 000 seats, the Aquatic Center, Tennis Center and an Administrative building.
The other three components are situated at the Eastend Sports Park.
This includes the training track, soccer and rugby stadium, hockey field and the Multipurpose Aall which will be used as the main dining hall.
These seven component of the Stadium project will host the bulk of the 24 sports that will be played during the 2023 Pacific Games.
The total contribution from the Peoples Republic of China for the Games is $SBD1Billion.
Yesterday’s handing over program concluded with the handing over of keys by H.E Li Ming to the Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, signing of the completion certificate, handing over from the contractors to the government, handing over of the HCC completion and compliance certificate by HCC Lord Mayor Eddie Siapu to the NHA Chair Dr Jimmy Rodgers, presentation of gifts and presentation of letters of appreciation to CCECC and CSADI.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
Solomon Star, Honiara
