Taiwan pledges to continue financial support to Solomon Islands

By Alfred Maesulia

The Republic of China (Taiwan) Ambassador to Solomon Islands, HE George Chan has pledged to continue his country’s support to Solomon Islands under the current bilateral programmes.

“My government will continue to give $1 million dollars each to all members of the National Parliament under the Rural Constituency Development Fund (RCDF),” His Excellency George Chan told the gathering during a welcome function hosted by Prime Minister Sogavare on Wednesday night.

He also pledged his support for the continuation of the Micro Fund, the twice a year visit of Taiwan medical personnel to the Honiara National Referral Hospital and financial support for Solomon Islands students to study overseas.

Mr. Chan said that next year his government would sponsor about 500 students to study at various institutions overseas including Taiwan. This would be the largest support in terms of sponsorship for student in the education sector from a single donor.

“Our relationship is very strong indeed. When you suffer, we suffer. When you are happy, we are also happy,” the eloquent speaker George Chan said.

Mr. Chan recalled the time when Solomon Islands during the ethic tension.

“When you were alone and no friends to stand by your side during those dark days, Taiwan was there to assist you. In like manner, when Taiwan was intimidated by mainland China, you [Solomon Islands] were there to support us,” Chan said.

Chan, who will be 64 in four years time, said he would make use of his last years in his diplomatic service in Solomon Islands before he retires.

He arrived in the country on September 14 this year to replace Antonio Chen.

Source: Government Communications Unit