19 Jun 2009

Japan to assist Solomon Islands with two major life-support projects

10:27 am on 19 June 2009

Officials from the governments of Japan and Solomon Islands have signed a multi-million dollar deal to improve two major life-support projects in Solomon Islands.

The Gizo hospital reconstruction and the Honiara-Auki water improvement projects costs a total of 41 million US dollars, of which over 19 million dollars will go towards Gizo hospital reconstruction and 22 million dollars will go towards improvement of water supply systems in Honiara and Auki.

Gizo hospital in the Western Province was destroyed during the 2007 earth quake and subsequent tsunami that claimed at least 52 lives.

Honiara city and Auki in Malaita Province have been facing critical water problems over the years.

Japan's Charge d'Affaires says his Government is delighted to contribute towards these needs and strongly believes sthe projects will improve social conditions for the people of Solomon Islands.

The Solomon Islands Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Nollen Leni, replied that the assistance reflected the genuine commitment of Japan to the close relationship between the two countries.