The Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Hon. Ricky Fuo’o, held a successful meeting with Counsellor Li Qinghua from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Embassy in Honiara this morning.
The meeting focused on enhancing ongoing infrastructure projects and exploring training opportunities.
Counsellor Qinghua extended her warm congratulations to Hon. Fuo’o on his appointment as the new minister for MID and affirmed close partnership during his tenure in office.
She highlighted the China-aid Auki Road Project as a key area of ongoing collaboration. She identified project advancement issues that require additional attention to ensure timely and successful delivery.
Furthermore, the Counsellor outlined training programs offered by China aimed at capacity building and technical skills enhancement within the ministry.
She revealed that nearly 200 Solomon Islands government officials have benefited from these programs in the first five months of 2025, encouraging MID officers to seize these opportunities to bolster their expertise.
Minister Fuo’o expressed appreciation for China’s continued support in infrastructure development nationwide.
He assured Counsellor Qinghua that the Auki town road project remains a top priority under the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).
The ministry is committed to working closely with Malaita provincial authorities and relevant stakeholders to facilitate smooth implementation and timely completion.
Work on the 9-kilometer Auki Road segment (Kilu’ufi Hospital to Kwaibala Bridge), including the upgrade of 16 feeder roads within the growing town, is progressing well, with initial works to be completed before the full upgrade.
MID’s Safeguards team is also active on the ground in Auki in collating all prerequisites before the contractor rolls out the road upgrade.
Hon. Fuo’o also highlighted ongoing efforts to revitalize the Public Works Department (PWD). He emphasized that upcoming training opportunities will be instrumental in preparing the department’s workforce for its renewed operational phase.
MID remains committed to collaborating with development partners to upgrade land, marine, and building infrastructure across all nine provinces, fostering sustainable growth and national development.
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