Ladies and Gentlemen

Good Morning, Namaste and Ni sa bula

It gives me pleasure to attend to this morning’s handing over ceremony of a bus, which is custom-built to accommodate transportation needs of disabled people. I believe this new bus is a clear manifestation of Japan’s love and care not only for grassroots people of Fiji, but also for the disadvantaged and physically impaired ones. I also wish to take this opportunity to express appreciation for your generosity and the warm reception extended to me this morning.

At the outset, I wish to convey to you Japanese Government’s gratitude for the overwhelming support and message of condolence from the Government and people of the Republic of Fiji, during and aftermath of the unprecedented March earthquake and tsunami that devastated part of Japan, leaving behind mass destruction and loss of lives of our beloved ones.

While Japan is slowly recovering from the disaster, yet, it continues to remain determined to assist in the improvement of peoples’ livelihood in Fiji.

Today’s occasion marks the success of Japan’s seventh project out of the 13 projects identified for the last fiscal year, namely March 2010 to April 2011, that were funded under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects programme, in short known as GGP.

Since the inception of GGP programme in 1993, Japan funded 256 projects with a total value of approximately 11.4 million US dollars around Fiji. 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 education, water supply, basic sanitary environment, health, vocational training and rural infrastructure.

Whilst promoting balanced opportunities and equal treatment for people with physical disabilities, the Government of Japan appreciates the opportunity being given to donate a new disabled passenger bus to Western Disabled Peoples Association. The new specialised bus is well-equipped with electronic lift to 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 families and people with disabilities when it comes to travelling by public transport.

I am confident that this project will greatly 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 to continue Japan’s firm commitment to promote equality amongst the disabled society, and I am hopeful that this project will become a good role model of our cooperation.

Thank You