14 Jul 2005

Hope for Australian investment in remote Solomons province

1:07 pm on 14 July 2005

The deputy Premier of Temotu province in Solomon Islands says an Australian-funded joint venture will enable major infrastructure developments to take place on Vanikoro.

Noel Keniano says two Australian investors, whom he didn't name, look set to invest billions of dollars into a proposal to build a timber mill and a tourism resort.

He says the multi million dollar resort will boost tourism to the remote islands, but better infrastructure is needed to bring tourists in.

"The fact is we want this airport to be erected, but the government cannot do so and we appreciate the coming of these Australians because we believe that when they do arrive here, they will set up the airport."

Noel Keniano says there's also a need to improve the roads.

The Temotu provincial government has a five per cent stake in the proposed joint venture.