Richard Butler | Exclusive by G.Bule of Daily Post | July 6th, 2019
Exchange of MOU between Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Ralph Regenvanu, and Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, Vatu 14 Million investment responsiblity given to CCECC.
China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has been selected to conduct the feasibility study to identify the right location to build a small port and a connecting road on the island of Pentecost.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Ralph Regenvanu, who accompanied Prime Minister Charlot Salwai to China in May, told Daily Post that the latest agreement that was signed between the government of the People’s Republic of China and the government of Vanuatu covers a total amount of Vt14 million to be spent on the feasibility study and on a connecting road on Pentecost.
When people from Pentecost are guessing where the mini-port is going to be built, they have to wait for this feasibility study that is aimed to find the right place for the new infrastructure.
This new development for Pentecost people was initiated by Salwai-led coalition government for kava trade. It will boost the kava market to benefit the people from the island.
After the signing of the agreement, Minister Regenvanu told foreign media that Chinese assistance regarding the small port on Pentecost does not mean it is for Chinese use.
The initial idea for a port on Pentecost was initiated some years ago. A feasibility study was undertaken at Loltong Harbour and the executive at that time planned to look after funding from aid donors. Until today, nothing has been done.
