A TOP level delegation from the PNG-based Bank South Pacific (BSP) made a courtesy call on Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare on Thursday during which they expressed confidence in the business environment in Solomon Islands.
The three-man delegation includes BSP Chairman Kostas Constantinou, BSP Chief Executive Officer Robin Fleming and BSP Country Manager David Anderson.
The group briefed Prime Minister Sogavare on the performance of BSP since its establishment in the country as well as the bank’s expansion plans in Solomon Islands, particularly, in rural banking services.
Mr Constantinou also confirmed BSP’s takeover of Westpac bank, which will exit Solomon Islands when formal arrangements are finalised.
He said the takeover is part of BSP’s expansion plans in Solomon Islands and they envisaged more employment opportunities for Solomon Islanders.
“Our expansion is an affirmation of our confidence to operate in Solomon Islands and to support the development aspirations of the government and people of this country,” Mr Constantinou said.
Prime Minister Sogavare assured the delegation that the Democratic Coalition for Change (DCC) Government he leads will ensure that necessary infrastructures will be put in place to support economic development in the country.
“Infrastructure development is a crucial part of the DCC Government policy for larger provinces such as Malaita and Guadalcanal and we are determined to achieve that to provide favorable conditions for investors,” Mr Sogavare said.
Prime Minister Sogavare acknowledged BSP’s expansion plans in Solomon Islands, particularly, in the area of rural banking, adding that there is a need for partnership between the government and the banks to ensure rural banking is advanced and well developed.
Other issues discussed during the visit include the palm oil industry, tourism and mining.
According to Mr Constantinou, BSP is ranked one of the leading banks in the world in terms of rural banking services and its Board meets in Honiara every two years.
– GCU
