China assists ICT, transport and trade in FICs

Wednesday 15, December 2010

The Government of the People’s Republic of China today handed over $US650,000 to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat to assist with Information and Communications Technology (ICT), transport and trade development in the region.

The grant is a realization of commitments made by China through Post Forum Dialogue consultations since 2005 under the China Development Cooperation Fund.

At a handover ceremony held at the Forum Secretariat this morning, Acting Secretary General Feleti Teo thanked China for its ongoing support of Forum development initiatives under the Pacific Plan.

“The funds received today will greatly assist the implementation of Forum Leaders’ decisions to address issues of air and sea transport, and ICT access,” said Mr Teo. “The funding will also strengthen trade relations between China and Forum Island Countries (FICs) through financial support to the Pacific Islands Forum Trade Office in Beijing.”

Mr Teo also acknowledged China’s support to the region through the China-Pacific Islands Forum Regional Scholarships Programme, strengthening trade and economic cooperation and the World Expo held this year in Shanghai.

At the handover ceremony, Counsellor Huang He from the Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China in Suva, said today’s occasion was a testimony of friendship, trust and cooperation based the common vision for a greater future for the Forum and its member countries.

ENDS

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