Solomons gets K1.5 million

By ALISON ANIS
THE government has presented a cheque for K1.5 million to the government of Solomon Islands.
The money was the final draw-down of the K23 million grant assistance under the memorandum of agreement reached between the two governments in 2006.
That agreement is for the construction of the Solomon Islands chancery in PNG and to provide funding support to Solomons students studying in tertiary institutions and colleges here.
Acting secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Lucy Bogari presented the remaining K1.5  million  to Solomons acting high commissioner William Soaki at the Foreign Affairs Department on Wednesday.
 “The assistance shows the PNG is committed to extend help to its closest neighbour and friend,” Bogari said.
“The assistance is a testimony to PNG’s commitment to building strong and lasting ties with its Melanesian friend and close neighbour.”
Soaki said the Solomon Islands appreciated the help and continued support of PNG in the development of the chancery and in education.
He said the money would be used for the final construction phase of the chancery in PNG.
“The Solomons government  will continue to foster bilateral relations with PNG in years ahead.
“The Solomon Islands have benefited greatly from the assistance provided by the PNG government,” Soaki said.