MALAITA Province Premier Martin Fini has joined Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and Deputy Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga in congratulating the new Chinese Ambassador to Solomon Islands His Excellency Cai Weiming on taking up his new ambassadorial posting.

Ambassador Cai arrived in the country on Monday. He replaces the first PRC Ambassador to Solomon Islands Li Ming who left the country after completing his tenure.

Immediately after presenting his credentials to the Governor General Sir David Vunagi and meeting the Prime Minister earlier this week, Ambassador Weiming’s first official engagement was the signing of Exchange of Notes with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure Development Manasseh Maelanga for the Auki Road Tar-sealing Project.

“I convey my sincere congratulations to the new Chinese Ambassador HE Cai Weiming on his appointment. On behalf of the Provincial Government, we look forward for deeper cooperation with the Government of the Peoples Republic China (PRC) in the coming years,” Premier Fini, who witnessed the signing ceremony on Wednesday, said.

Premier Fini highlighted that Malaita Province looks forward for further cooperation and meaningful partnerships with the National Government and the country’s development partners who are willing to support the development aspirations of the province.

He pointed out that one of the priority needs of the province is better and safer road infrastructures to enable trade and access to markets and social services across the province.

“My Provincial Executive will continue to ensure we secure projects from the National Government and willing development partners for our province, regardless of the short time we have [left] before the next election. Our determination remains strong on this intention,” Premier Fini added.

A team from the Peoples Republic of China are expected to arrive in Auki after this Christmas to begin a feasibility on the tar-sealing project.

– GCU