MRD DELEGATION, WITH PRC MEETS TEMOTU PROVINCIAL EXECUTIVE TO STRENGTHEN DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION 

A delegation from the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), along with Counsellor Li Qinghua of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), recently met with the Premier of Temotu Province Honourable Stanley Tehiahua and his Provincial Executive to dialog ongoing cooperation and explore further avenues for partnership.

The visit was a significant juncture for the province, marking the first time PRC officials have travelled to Temotu, the easternmost province of Solomon Islands, as part of an official MRD delegation.

It gave officials the opportunity to assess current projects, discuss future collaboration, and reaffirm the PRC’s continued support for the province’s development.

Both sides acknowledged the enduring friendship between Solomon Islands and the People’s Republic of China, noting the tangible progress achieved through past cooperation, including the construction of clinics, schools, and roads, and the provision of boats to rural communities, which has contributed to meaningful improvements in infrastructure, transportation, and social services across the province.

Discussions recognized several priority areas for continued cooperation, including infrastructure development, rural livelihoods, fisheries, renewable energy, education, and technical training.

Counsellor Li conveyed China’s continued interest in supporting sustainable economic initiatives that directly benefit the people of Temotu Province, commending the progress achieved to date and expressing confidence in forthcoming initiatives, particularly in capacity building and technical training for local communities.

Provincial Premier Honourable Stanley Tehiahua expressed appreciation for the PRC’s ongoing assistance and highlighted the province’s potential in fisheries, agriculture, ecotourism, and marine resource development, notwithstanding its remoteness.

He also raised existing challenges relating to transportation and energy access, expressing hope that continued partnership would help address these constraints.

The visit reflected the continuing spirit of mutual respect and cooperation between Solomon Islands and the People’s Republic of China, with both sides optimistic that expanding cooperation would deliver lasting benefits to the communities of Temotu Province.

The Ministry of Rural Development remains committed to strengthening this partnership, together with the Solomon Islands Government and the People’s Republic of China, in pursuit of shared development goals for the benefit of all rural Solomon Islanders.

The delegation’s visit coincided with the official handover of 21 boats and outboard motor engines, worth $1.5 million, to communities, health and education in Nende Constituency under the PRC-funded Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP).

While there, the delegation also visited Lusalemba school, where they were warmly welcomed by teachers and students, before inspecting the China-supported National Broadband Infrastructure Project and touring the Lata Station and the ongoing airport upgrade, built by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) under World Bank funding.

The delegation was composed of the Honourable Member of Parliament for Temotu Nende Constituency and Minister of Education Stephen Kumi; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Rural Development and his senior officers; PRC Counsellor Li Qinghua and her colleague; and few officers from Nende Constituency.

Refer below for more photo highlights: 

Premier Stanley welcomes the delegation upon arrival at Santa Airport, Lata.

The visiting delegation during a meeting with Provincial Premier Honourable Stanley Tehiahua and his Executive.

The official handover of 21 boats and outboard motor engines, worth $1.5 million, to communities, health and education in Nende Constituency under the PRC-funded Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP).

A traditional welcome by warriors for the visiting delegation at Luesalemba School.

Part of the 21 boats and OBM project funded under the RSDP program for Temotu Nende Constituency.

PRC Counsellor Li speaking to Luesalemba students.

The visiting delegation were welcomed by staff and students at Luesalemba school.

Luesalemba students.

The visiting delegation taking a tour around Lata Station accompanied by Premier Stanley.

(L-R): PS MRD John Misite’e, Counsellor Li from PRC Embassy, Provincial Premier Honourable Stanley Tehiahua and Member of Parliament and Minister of Education Honourable Stephen Kumi during a brief tour through the Lata Station.

Santa Cruz airport currently built by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) under World Bank funding.

Honourable Premier Stanley and PRC Counsellor Li.

Visit to tower sites under the China-supported National Broadband Infrastructure Project at the Lata Station.

– MRD Pres