Deputy Prime Minister and Head of the Solomon Islands Delegation to the 68th UN General Assembly meeting in New York has held talks with officials from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Government on Friday to discuss enhanced cooperation in the renewable energy sector between the two countries.
During the bilateral engagement, UAE’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Saeed Alshamsi told Hon. Maelanga of his countries motivation to help Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) in the pacific including Solomon Islands in their development programs and aspirations.
He said UAE this year has committed US$50 million for the next 5 years to assist small islands states in the pacific to develop their renewable energy sectors and has encouraged Solomon Islands to seize the opportunity.
Besides, Dr Saeed Alshamsi has encouraged the Solomon Islands government to seek further development assistance from the UAE, particularly, in its pursuit to develop its renewable energy sector.
UAE is one of the world’ s leading countries in developing and promoting renewable energy technology which it wants to share with the rest of world, particularly, developing nations like Solomon Islands.
Deputy Prime Minister Maelanga welcomed the UAE offer saying the Government has placed renewable energy development at the heart of its development priorities.
“I am pleased with your offer and my Government is prepared to arrange further discussions on this issue with your government,” he said.
Mr Maelanga also briefed the UAE Minister on the ongoing Hydro-Electricity projects in the country.
He said developing hydro- electricity is one of the government’s key priorities, adding that the UAE offer is timely and relevant to Solomon Islands.
Hon. Maelanga also announced Solomon Islands support towards UAE’ s bid to host the World Trade Expo in 2014.
He said cabinet has endorsed the support and is looking forward to participate in the world event to promote Solomon Islands as a potential investment destination to the outside world.
Press Release: GCU