The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today announced its support towards Fiji’s development through the grant aid of USD $15,450M.
Prime Minister Rabuka welcomed the announcement while receiving a courtesy call from the high official delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Fiji.
The delegation was headed by the Deputy Minister of Tourism for International Affairs, His Excellency Mr. Sultan Al-Musallam, the Deputy Head of Mission of the Saudi Embassy in Australia, Mr. Rakan Al-Saadoon, and the representative of the Saudi Fund for Development, Dr. Saud Al-Shammari.
Fiji and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed their commitment to enhance cooperation in key development sectors namely; tourism, education, infrastructure, health and economic stability.
In welcoming the delegation, Prime Minister Rabuka thanked them for visiting Fiji to advance cooperation between the two nations.
“Fiji looks forward to working closely with Saudi Arabia in supporting Fiji’s national development needs and aspirations.”
He acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthen relations with Fiji in the socioeconomic development initiatives aimed at improving the livelihood and wellbeing of communities in Fiji.
“Saudi Arabia’s support will have a significant impact on the development of Fiji’s local communities and infrastructure, and greatly assist in the implementation of important development projects and priorities of the People’s Coalition Government.”
The Saudi delegation also emphasized that financial support will be provided to Fiji by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) to assist the country’s rehabilitation and relief projects after the recent natural disasters.
The Head of Delegation Mr. Sultan Al Musallam conveyed the Kingdom’s promise to strengthen cooperation and bilateral relations with Fiji.
On the issue of support for Saudi Arabia’s candidacy to host the World Expo, Prime Minister Rabuka says Fiji’s delay in indicating support could mean missing out on vital assistance.
The Saudi delegation also met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Honourable Biman Prasad, the Minister for Education, Honourable Aseri Radrodro and the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr Lesikimacuata Korovavala.
