19 Jun 2006

Samoan MP wants Asian workers to re-develop agriculture

5:37 am on 19 June 2006

A first time Member of Parliament and businessman has urged the government to re-open doors for Chinese workers to enter Samoa and re-develop agriculture.

Vaeolenofoafia Tapasu Leung Wai said years ago Chinese workers and Solomon islanders were brought in to work in the German cocoa, and coconut plantations.

He said China also had strong skills in fish farming.

But the Finance Minister, Niko Lee Hang, has rejected the suggestion saying it would be seen as a criticism of the country.