Good Morning, Namaste and Ni sa bula

I have the pleasure to welcome you all to the Embassy this morning and express my appreciation to you, for taking the time to attend this Grant Contract signing ceremony that formalises Japan’s assistance for provision of a new disabled passenger bus to Western Disabled Peoples Association. Today’s occasion marks the award of Japan’s fifth project out of the 13 projects identified for the new fiscal year 2010 to be funded under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects programme, in short known as GGP.

Since the inception of this programme in 1993, Japan funded 250 projects with a total value of approximately 12 million US dollars around Fiji Islands. Under the GGP Programme, Japan continues to provide small and flexible grants to support development projects at the grass-roots level through its GGP Programme that is specifically designed to address basic human needs, which include health, education, water supply, basic sanitary environment, vocational training and rural infrastructure.

Whilst promoting balanced opportunities and equal treatment for people with physical disabilities, the Embassy of Japan appreciates the opportunity being given to donate a new handicap passenger bus to Western Disabled Peoples Association. The new specialised bus will be equipped with electronic lift that will accommodate wheelchair-bound people to be lifted smoothly and safely while boarding and disembarking the bus. I am hopeful that the new special bus will overcome the difficulties normally faced by the families and people with disabilities when it comes to travelling by public transport.

I am confident that this project will immensely contribute to the wellbeing of the members of Western Disabled Peoples Association and become their pillar of strength and hope.

Finally, with these few words, I wish to congratulate you for being a successful recipient out of the numerous proposals received by the Embassy, seeking Japan’s assistance. It is with deep conviction that I remain hopeful to continue Japan’s firm commitment to promote equality amongst the disabled society, and that, realisation of this project will become a good role model of our cooperation.

Thank You