PRC donates 27 Vehicles for PIFLM
By IAN KAUKUI
The Peoples Republic of China (PRC), handed over 27 Tank GWM 4W Drive 7 Sitter vehicles worth of 1 US million dollars (approximately SBD 8.5 million) yesterday to the government to be used for the 54th Public Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting next month in Honiara.
Speaking at the ceremony, PRC Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency, Chai Weiming says the donation of those vehicles is part of their support towards the hosting of the meeting.
“On behalf of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, I am delighted to officially handed over these 27 vehicles to the government of Solomon Islands for hosting the pacific forum leaders” he said
H.E Weiming said the agreement of the donation was signed on June by the two sides worth 1 million US dollars, thanks to the joint efforts to ensure the vehicles arrive on time before the meeting.
The newly donated vehicle’s.
He said last year during Prime Minister Manele’s visit to China, President Xi Jinping assured him that China will also assist Solomon Islands in hosting the meaningful event.
“This year, during their 3rd China Pacific Islands Foreign Minister’s meeting in Shaman, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Hi reiterated China’s support to Hon. Foreign minister, Peter Shanel Agovaka.
“These donated vehicles stand as a powerful testament of our unwavering commitment that carries China’s best wishes for Solomon Islands to successfully host this important event,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manele in his response said the 27 vehicles will form part of the 40 vehicles jointly purchase by the PRC and the government of Solomon Islands to provide transport for all leaders at the forum.
Mr. Manele said an additional 13 similar vehicles is procured by the Solomon Islands government.
ENDS//