PM addresses the cost of his trip to Saudi Arabia and the UAE

The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele, held a press conference yesterday to speak on the benefits of his recent overseas trip to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and also addressing the media’s criticism over the trip’s cost—reportedly more than SBD2 million—Manele highlighted the important benefits that have already been secured from the diplomatic mission.

Addressing concerns from the press, the Prime Minister acknowledged that the trip had drawn criticism due to its expense, which was paid by taxpayers. However, he highlighted that one of the major short-term benefits of his visit to Riyadh was the immediate approval of budget support of SBD8.3 million. This grant funding will be deposited into a Central Bank account as soon as they provide the necessary banking details to Saudi authorities.

Manele argued that this financial gain more than offsets the costs of the trip. Underlining that the assistance is small but it is something especially regarding the country’s current financial situation.

The Prime Minister remains confident that the visit and its benefits will further benefit the country.

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